Oregano starts waking up in the garden as early as April. From then on, its stems are packed with lush leaves for months on end, and you’re more than welcome to toss a few sprigs into your cooking pot whenever the craving hits. But if you’re looking for that massive, flavor-packed harvest, timing is everything! Here is the inside scoop on when to snip.
Harvesting Fresh Oregano
From spring through fall, this herb offers up plenty of fresh sprigs. Don’t be shy about harvesting; oregano is a vigorous grower and handles pruning like a champ. During this long growing season, it’s best to cut entire stems just above the woody base and right above a pair of leaves. For the best flavor, head out on a sunny morning once the dew has dried. Try to pick clean stems so you don’t have to wash them—rinsing can actually dull that signature aroma.
Whenever you need a little fresh oregano for a recipe, try to cut it right before you use it. If you have leftovers, they’ll only stay fresh for a few days in a glass of water or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the fridge.
The Best Way to Harvest for Preserving
Oregano is fantastic for preserving, whether you prefer drying or freezing it. Fun fact: drying actually intensifies its flavor, while freezing is great for keeping that vibrant green color. However, it’s only worth the effort of preserving when you have a large amount to harvest at once. That sweet spot happens in mid-summer. Wait until the plant is in bloom, as that’s when the essential oils are at their peak. Also, keep in mind that the sunnier your planting spot is, the more bountiful your harvest will be.
Here’s your harvest checklist:
- Wait for a stretch of a few sunny days.
- Harvest on a sunny morning.
- Make sure the morning dew has evaporated.
- Use sharp, clean garden shears.
- Cut the stems about a hand’s width above the ground.
- You can harvest all the stems at once.
- Handle with care—oregano leaves bruise easily!
Pro Tip:
A few days before your big harvest, give the plants a good spray with the hose to wash off any dust or dirt. This gives the plant time to recover any lost aroma before you actually cut it.
When to Stop Harvesting
That big mid-summer bloom harvest should be your last major one of the year. After that, it’s best to leave the oregano alone. For one, the stems won’t taste quite as good as the season winds down. More importantly, you want this perennial herb to save up its energy so it can head into winter strong and healthy.
Harvesting Oregano Flowers
When oregano is in full bloom, it doesn’t just give us flavor-packed leaves—it also gives us edible flowers! You can process the blossoms right along with the rest of the stem. They have a milder version of that classic oregano taste but with a subtle, delicate sweetness. You can also harvest just the flowers to use as a beautiful garnish for summer dishes or drinks.
