Heirloom Italian Oregano

PERENNIAL

Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardy

TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN

When warm spring weather arrives, sow in full sun in a well worked, finely textured seed bed with good drainage. Sow thinly, then water very gently for good soil contact, but do not cover seeds. Tend carefully: keep soil evenly moist but not soggy and well weeded.

TO START INDOORS

Sow seed in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Press gently into moistened soil mix, but do not cover. Provide a good light source. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge in 10 to 21 days. Transplant when 1 to 2 inches tall after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Thin or space seedlings 10 inches apart when they are large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

Mix tiny seeds with dry sand to help space seedlings. Young plants grow slowly at first; a good hot spell encourages strong growth. Pick leaves lightly the first season; wait until the second summer to make bigger harvests. For best leafy growth, cut sprays of purple blossom to enjoy in the kitchen. Given good drainage, this carefree Mediterranean native is hardy and long-lived.