Italian Oregano – MIg

Description

Italian Oregano is a classic heirloom herb prized for its aromatic dark green leaves and robust, slightly peppery flavor. It is an essential herb in Mediterranean cuisine and is widely used in pizzas, pasta sauces, grilled meats, vegetables, soups, breads, and salads. This hardy perennial is also valued for attracting bees and other beneficial pollinators while thriving in warm, sunny conditions. It performs exceptionally well during the UAE’s cooler growing season.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Indoors: Start seeds indoors in August.
• Outdoors: Transplant seedlings or direct sow from October through December, when temperatures are mild.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light & Soil: Plant in full sun in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil enriched with organic matter.
• Depth & Germination: Sow seeds 0.2–0.5 cm deep. Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days.
• Spacing: Space plants 30–40 cm apart, with 45–60 cm between rows.
• Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist during germination and establishment. Once established, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Feeding: Apply compost before planting. Oregano requires minimal fertilization and grows best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
• Harvest: Begin harvesting stems approximately 70–90 days after planting. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and improved leaf production.
• Harvesting Tips: Cut stems just above a leaf node before flowering for the strongest flavor. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried.