Marjoram is a mildly sweet culinary herb used in soups, stews, dressings and sauces. Often called Sweet Marjoram or Knotted Marjoram, this flowering herb is in the Oregano family and is also great for attracting beneficial insects to the garden. Marjoram is a cold sensitive plant, so in many locations it's grown as an annual.

Start Marjoram seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to the end of frost of season. The herb seeds can also be sown directly out in the garen once the temperatures are warm.

Marjoram plants need full sun and soil that is on the drier side. Marjoram does not thrive in wet soils or humid conditions.

• Start the Marjoram seeds in starter flats indoors
• Press the seed into the soil but do not cover because the seed needs light for germination
• Harden the seedlings off and transplant into the garden 8 - 12 inches apart
• Or, work the garden soil 6 inches in depth or more
• Amend the soil with compost to ensure the soil drains well
• Sow the herb seeds onto moistened soil
• Keep the seeds moist for germination
• Thin out weaker seedlings until plants are 8 - 12 inches apart

• Marjoram plants should dry out inbetween irrigations
• No fertilizer is needed
• Trimming the plant encourages new growth throughout the season
• Once flower buds appear, trim the plant back low to the ground to stimulate new growth
• Marjoram leaves can be snipped throughout the season and used fresh or freeze or dry for later use
• The plants are sensitive to frosts, but they can be potted and brought indoors for winter growing