Italian Oregano
60d to harvest
Aromatic and richly herbal, Italian Oregano fills the garden with a warm, Mediterranean perfume—deeply savory with a bright, slightly peppery lift. Its leaves are small to medium and beautifully textured, holding their fragrance through drying and delivering bold character in everyday herb blends. Grow Italian Oregano for fragrant fresh sprigs and for drying into a pantry staple that elevates sauces, roasted vegetables, and hearty stews with its unmistakable, full-bodied flavor.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 30th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 60 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
Italian oregano (Origanum × majoricum) — what’s the most common pest/disease problem and how do I manage it?
The most frequent issue is powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions and when airflow is poor. Water only at the soil line, space plants so leaves don’t stay wet, and remove badly affected leaves early. If mildew persists, spray a labeled potassium bicarbonate or sulfur product, following the label for Lamiaceae herbs and reapplying as directed.
When is Italian oregano (Origanum × majoricum) ready to harvest?
Harvest once plants reach about 6–8 inches tall and after they begin producing healthy side shoots, typically around 60 days from sowing. Take stems in the morning and cut back no more than one-third of the plant at a time to encourage regrowth. You’ll get the best flavor when leaves are plentiful and the plant is just before or at the earliest flowering stage.