How to Grow
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For herbs, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
Keep plants well-watered during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
Fertilize as needed with Gro-Tone All Purpose Organic Plant Food.
To propagate, divide the plants in spring.
Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
Tips
Harvest as needed and to keep plants most productive and bushy.
Harvest in the morning when plants are dry. Harvest before flower buds form.
Cut leaves on a sunny morning. Tie stems together and hang in a dry place away from the sun. OR spread on a cheesecloth or a window screen in a dry, shady location. Or dry herbs in the oven for 2-3 hours on a cookie sheet at the lowest heat, leaving the oven door open. OR use a dehydrator following the manufacturer’s instructions.
When thoroughly dry, pulverize and store in a tightly sealed glass jar in a dry, dark location, such as a cupboard.
Oregano may also be frozen either in zip lock bags or finely chopped in water or olive oil in ice cube trays.
