When every stem starts bursting with buds, there’s no missing this herb in the garden. I always tell my fellow gardeners to mark their calendars for this moment because it’s not just a signal that it’s time for the big harvest—it’s also when a unique, floral treat awaits us!
Bloom Time and Appearance
The dainty, bell-shaped flowers of Oregano (botanically known as *Origanum vulgare*) typically open up between July and September. If we’re having a particularly scorching summer, you might even see this perennial start to pop as early as June. These tiny blossoms range from soft pink to deep purple and grow in lovely little clusters or spikes.
Harvesting During the Bloom
For oregano lovers, the flowering stage is the “go time” for the main harvest. Most herb enthusiasts know that this is exactly when the essential oils are peaking, making the flavor more intense than ever. Here is how to prune your oregano the right way:
- Harvest on a sunny morning once the dew has dried.
- Wait for a stretch of a few sunny days for the best flavor.
- Use sharp, clean garden shears.
- Cut the stems just above the woody base.
- Don’t be shy—you can harvest all the stems at once.
Pro Tip:
If you wash your oregano stems right after harvesting, you’ll actually lose a noticeable amount of that precious aroma. To keep things clean without sacrificing flavor, try giving the whole bush a gentle spray with the garden hose a few days before you plan to cut it.
Yes, the Flowers are Edible and Delicious!
Most people stick to the leaves, but the flowers are a hidden gem! They are completely edible, though their flavor profile is a bit different. The classic “pizza herb” punch is a little more subtle in the blooms, replaced by a delicate, spicy sweetness. Whether you plan to dry your oregano or freeze it, feel free to leave the flowers attached.
Ways to Use Oregano Flowers
While most folks just toss the flowers in with the leaves, using the blossoms on their own can really level up your kitchen game. They make a beautiful visual statement and let that refined flavor shine. Here are a few ideas for your harvest:
- Toss them into a fresh summer salad.
- Sprinkle them over a piece of buttered sourdough.
- Use them as a gorgeous edible garnish for plating.
- Drop them into savory cocktails for a botanical twist.
A Feast for the Bees
If you find yourself with more oregano than you can use, leave a few stems for our pollinator friends! Bees and butterflies absolutely love the nectar and will be frequent visitors to your garden. Just a heads-up: if your oregano is right next to a patio or a walkway, keep an eye out to avoid any accidental stings.
If you let the flowers fully mature, you can even collect the seeds for next year’s planting. On the flip side, if you want to prevent the plant from spreading itself all over the garden, just make sure to deadhead the spent blooms promptly.
