Start Oregano seeds for this pungently aromatic plant that is one of the most important herbs of Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking. Mainly used dry, the flavor is strong enough to stand up to bold flavors like tomatoes, onion, garlic and beef. Oregano is a must have herb for any kitchen garden, and the flowers will draw in the pollinators as well.

Start Oregano seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to the last frost, or directly sow the herb seeds outdoors once frost danger has passed.

Oregano plants thrive in soil that drains well and in full sun. The plants also do not tolerate acidic soil very well.

• Indoors, using starter trays, sow the seeds and keep them moist
• Harden off the seedlings and transplant out once frost danger has passed, spacing the plants 8 - 12 inches apart
• Or, outdoors, work the garden soil 6 inches in depth
• Amend the soil with compost to make sure the soil drains well
• Broadcast the herb seeds and only cover lightly because the seed needs light for germination
• Keep the area moist for germination to occur
• Thin seedlings to every 8 - 12 inches apart

• Oregano leaves can be harvested any time during the growing season
• The flavor is best prior to blooming
• To increase the yield, trim the blooms off before the flowers open to encourage more leaf growth
• Leaves can be used fresh or dried and kept in jars for later use