Oregano is a vigorously growing herb that forms dense carpets in its southern homeland. So that the Dost does not unintentionally take over the entire herb bed, it is advisable to shorten the plant regularly.
When and how should you cut oregano?
Cutting oregano can be done at any time and promotes the growth of the plant. Cut off shoots above a branch. Harvest time is during flowering in midsummer, the last cut is in autumn, just above the ground.
Height and growth
Depending on the variety and location, oregano can reach heights of between fifteen and sixty centimeters. The small, egg-shaped and slightly hairy leaves are an exquisite kitchen spice that gives dishes such as pizza or tomato sauce a typically southern touch.
Pruning is possible at any time
Oregano is a robust plant that tolerates cutting back well. You can cut the herbs as early as April, when there is no longer any risk of night frosts. This pruning is necessary regularly during the summer months.
These cut branches are ideal as cuttings to propagate the plant. To do this, remove the lower leaves of the oregano and place the seedling in a container with potting soil (€6.00 at Amazon). With appropriate care, the small shoot quickly develops into a new plant.
Pruning during flowering
When the oregano opens its pretty white, pink or purple lip blossoms in midsummer, it tastes most aromatic because only then are the oils formed. Now is the right time to harvest and process the culinary herb.
- Cut off the shoots above a branch to stimulate growth.
- You can use the edible flowers of the dost.
- Oregano can be preserved by drying or freezing.
A final cut takes place in autumn
After harvesting in early fall, cut the oregano back to about a hand's width above the ground. Since not all types of oregano are winter-proof, you should give the plant winter protection made of brushwood or fleece.
You can use this cutting to make an aromatic bath s alt that is excellent for diseases of the upper respiratory tract:
- Pour 500 g of Dead Sea s alt into a screw-top jar.
- Add about 100 grams of the cut branches.
- Mix well.
Addition of five tablespoons of whey powder has proven effective for very dry skin.
Tips & Tricks
Oregano likes to grow wild through self-sowing and then, for example, fills the cracks between paving stones or gaps in a holey lawn. If this is undesirable, you should pull out the small seedlings in good time and cut back the oregano before seeds form.
