Oregano Plant Care

Tap to Read ➤ Shrinivas Kanade

Owing to its numerous uses, this native plant of Europe and the Mediterranean is widely grown even in gardens. Read on to know more.

Origanum vulgare, its scientific name, the oregano plant grows about 24" tall. It's small leaves are slightly furry and has gray and green shades. Flowers that bloom in July-September are pink, light purple or white. The stems form a matting pattern on the ground.

Care

Tips for Healthy Growth

Plant the seeds at least 12 inches apart and ¼ inch deep in the flower garden. They favor a well-drained soil. In case of nursery plants, maintain a distance of at least 18 inches. You may choose to plant them in the sun.

When planting the oregano plants where the summers are very hot, prepare flower beds for them in part shade. They are a hardy species and can resist cold temperatures of the zone 4 and 5. This evergreen plant in very cold climates can be grown as an annual variety. Harvest the plant just before mid-spring. Mid-summer is the best time for transplantation.

Treatment Against Pests and Fungi

There are few pests and oregano plant diseases which may make it necessary for you to take its care. Puccinia menthae is a fungus affecting it. This disease cause small, brown-colored, circular leaf spots to appear on the leaves.

This plant may also get affected by the root-rot disease. You may have to protect them from the pests such as spider mite, aphids, and leaf miners. During winter, care can be taken by laying a protective covering or mulch of the grass or straw around the plant. When spring arrives, it is best to remove this mulch.

Since this species is perennial, you must plan and select its location with proper care. Ensure that you prune this species before it blooms in order to encourage a denser growth.