Oregano is a tough-as-nails herb. Even though it originally hails from the sunny Mediterranean, that doesn’t mean it can’t thrive in our gardens for years to come. But does it just take care of itself, or do we need to lend a helping hand? Let’s dive into how to keep your oregano coming back season after season.
Setting the Stage for Growth
If you want your oregano to be a long-term resident in your garden, it needs to stay healthy. A plant can only fend off pests and diseases if it’s living its best life. Here’s what your oregano is looking for:
- A spot with full sun to partial shade
- Loose, well-draining soil (no soggy feet!)
- Watering only when it actually needs it
- The occasional boost of nutrients
Helping In-Ground Oregano Survive the Winter
Getting through the winter is the biggest hurdle for a perennial plant. While most oregano varieties are fairly hardy, a truly brutal winter can still be a challenge. A light frost won’t hurt it, but you’ll want to protect the plant from deep, sustained freezes. My advice? Leave the stems alone until spring—they act as a natural shield for the base of the plant. You can also tuck it in with some brushwood or garden fleece for extra warmth.
Quick Tip:
To make sure your oregano is strong enough to handle the cold, stop harvesting it after the big mid-summer bloom. You can still enjoy that homegrown flavor all winter long by preserving your summer haul—try freezing or drying it!
Winter Care for Potted Oregano
Potted oregano can also live for years, provided it gets the same TLC mentioned above. Since it’s a vigorous grower, make sure it has a roomy pot (at least 12 inches wide). Keep in mind that container plants are more sensitive to the cold than those in the ground. If possible, move your pot to a bright, frost-free room before the first freeze hits.
If you have to leave it outside, find a sheltered spot. Wrap the pot itself in burlap or bubble wrap and cover the plant with garden fleece to keep the roots from freezing solid.
Quick Tip:
Want more plants for free? You can easily propagate oregano by dividing the root ball. Alternatively, just snip off a few stems and use them as cuttings to start new plants.
A Note on Marjoram
Marjoram is a close cousin to oregano, and they often get confused. However, unlike oregano, marjoram is usually treated as an annual in most US climates. It’s much more sensitive to cold and typically needs to be replanted from seed every year.
