Sicilian Oregano

Oregano

60d to harvest

Aromatic as a sunlit hillside—Sicilian Oregano unfurls with a bright, resinous fragrance and a pleasantly peppery, warm herb flavor. The leaves are small and velvety, holding their character with a crisp, lively texture that shines in dried bundles and fresh sprigs alike. Grow it for bold, fragrant flavor in herb blends, sauces, and savory roasts, or to steep into aromatic infusions that capture its Mediterranean spirit.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 1st
Last Frost	May 13th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 24th
Harvest Begins	Aug 23rd
Harvest Ends	Sep 27th

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Sicilian oregano (Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum), and how do I treat it?

Watch for powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, dusty coating on leaves during warm, humid spells. Improve airflow by spacing plants well and watering at the soil line (not on foliage), then remove heavily affected stems. If mildew persists, use a targeted organic fungicide labeled for powdery mildew on herbs and repeat as directed on the label.

How often should I water Sicilian oregano during its main growth phase?

Water deeply only when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, then let excess drain—Sicilian oregano prefers evenly moist but never soggy soil. During active growth, this typically means watering about 1–2 times per week depending on your heat and soil drainage. In containers, check more often because pots dry faster; always empty saucers so the roots don’t sit in wet water.

How can I tell when Sicilian oregano is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants are established and reach about 6–8 inches tall, typically around 60 days, before flowering for the best flavor. Snip sprigs from healthy outer growth, taking no more than one-third of the plant at a time so it can regrow. Use leaves when they smell strongly aromatic and appear fully developed, not still small and pale.