Oregano Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Oregano Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Oregano

Planting Schedule:
Begin your oregano journey by sowing seeds indoors in plug trays from late winter through mid-spring. An indoor start enhances germination success compared to outdoor sowing.

Maintain a steady soil temperature of 15°C (60°F) with bottom heat, anticipating sprouts within 7 to 14 days.


Seed Starting:
Due to their small, dust-like size, oregano seeds require delicate handling. Use a sterilized seed starting mix in your containers or trays, ensuring the soil is moistened before sowing. Gently distribute seeds across the soil surface without covering them.

Employing bottom heat can significantly boost germination rates. Allow seedlings to mature, maintaining slightly dry soil conditions, then pot them on or move them outdoors when the season warms.


Growing:
Choose a sunny, warm location for your oregano, spacing plants about 25cm (10 inches) apart. Post-flowering, trim plants back to discourage legginess. With the onset of autumn, consider dividing plants to overwinter indoors, cutting back to roughly 6cm (2½ inches) above ground to encourage robust growth next season.


Harvesting:
Harvest oregano leaves as needed throughout the growing period. For preservation, leaves can be dried or frozen, capturing their aromatic flavour for off-season use. Store dried leaves or entire stems in airtight containers and place them in a cool, dark location to maintain their quality and essence.

Oregano Pests & Diseases

Aphids:
Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can weaken oregano by feeding on its juices.

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids. Maintain healthy soil to support strong plant growth.

Rinse aphids off plants with a strong stream of water. For heavier infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to target the undersides of leaves where aphids congregate.


Spider Mites:
These tiny pests cause damage by piercing plant cells and feeding on the contents.

Keep the garden clean and remove weeds where spider mites can breed. Ensure plants are well-watered to reduce stress.

Increase humidity around plants to deter spider mites. Use a forceful spray of water to dislodge mites from the plant. Apply miticides if infestation persists, following label instructions closely.

Powdery Mildew:
A fungal disease characterized by white, powdery spots on leaves and stems.

Ensure good air circulation around plants and water them at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Plant in full sun if possible.

Prune affected areas promptly. As a preventative spray, apply a mixture of baking soda, water, and a drop of liquid soap. For severe cases, use fungicides, ensuring they are safe for edible plants.