Grow Oregano Greek – A Fragrant Favourite for the Kitchen and Pollinators

Oregano Greek is a robust, aromatic herb cherished for its strong flavour and versatility in the kitchen. In mid to late summer, it produces clusters of small white flowers that not only add beauty to the garden but also attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

This hardy perennial is easy to grow and suits herb beds, borders, and containers. Its resilience and rich flavour make it an essential addition to any home gardener’s collection.

Growing Oregano Greek

Oregano Greek grows best in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal care.

Sowing and Planting

Sowing Period: Sow seeds indoors from February to April or directly outdoors from April to June.
Soil Preparation: Remove rocks and loosen the soil to create a fine, well-drained seedbed.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep into moist soil.
Spacing: Sow thinly and thin seedlings to 15 cm apart once established.
Germination: Expect seedlings to emerge within 7–14 days in warm conditions.

Care and Maintenance

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during establishment. Once established, water sparingly.
Weeding: Remove weeds regularly to reduce competition.
Thinning/Dividing: Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring to maintain vigour.

Picking

Timing: Begin picking leaves once plants are well established, typically from early summer.
Method: Snip leaves with scissors around 2.5 cm above the base. Regular picking promotes fresh growth.
Storage: Fresh leaves can be stored in the fridge for up to one week or dried for longer storage.

Culinary Uses

Oregano Greek’s bold flavour enhances a wide range of dishes:

• Mediterranean dishes: Perfect for Greek salads and Italian classics.
• Meat dishes: Complements grilled meats and marinades.
• Sauces: Adds depth to tomato sauces and stews.
• Herb mixes: Blends well with thyme, rosemary, and basil.