Since oregano is a perennial, it’ll keep coming back to life year after year. But as late fall rolls around, a lot of gardeners start wondering: Is this herb actually winter-hardy? And if it is, how much frost can it really handle before it calls it quits?
Yes, Oregano is Winter-Hardy (Mostly!)
Most oregano varieties are considered winter-hardy, but there are some subtle differences between them. Because of this, I wouldn’t say that winter protection is *always* unnecessary. When you’re first planting your oregano, it’s a good idea to check exactly how much frost that specific variety can take. If you want to play it safe, go ahead and protect any oregano growing in your garden beds. Just cover the base with some evergreen boughs or brush in the fall.
Quick Tip:
Don’t worry about overwintering Marjoram (*Origanum majorana*). It’s usually grown as an annual, so you’ll just want to sow new seeds every year once the frost is gone.
Young Plants Need Extra Love
If you just put your oregano in the ground this year, it’s not quite ready to battle deep freezes on its own. You’ll want to get it tucked in before the first night frost hits:
- In the fall, prune all the shoots back.
- Cut them down to about a hand-width above the ground.
- Mound some garden soil over the root area.
- Add a layer of evergreen branches, brush, or garden fleece.
- This provides shade and keeps the plant from drying out.
Overwintering Potted Oregano
Potted oregano definitely needs winter protection, no matter how hardy the variety is. If you don’t live in a super harsh climate and your variety isn’t overly sensitive, it can stay outside. Just find a bright spot that’s shielded from the wind. Wrap the entire pot and the plant in fleece or bubble wrap, but make sure to leave two openings: one at the top (like a chimney) so moisture can escape, and one at the bottom so water can drain out. You’ll still need to give it a little water every now and then! Alternatively, you can “heel in” the pot by burying it in your garden soil for the winter and digging it back up in the spring.
Finding the Perfect Winter Home
If you have the space, you can also bring your potted oregano indoors to a “winter quarter.” Even if your living room is cozy, it’s actually way too warm for oregano. It’ll be happiest in a bright, cool spot—think a frost-free greenhouse or a basement with a window.
