Oregano is a robust and easy-to-care herb that thrives in a pot on the balcony. Freshly harvested, the leaves and edible flowers of oregano taste a little less intense than dried and are therefore also suitable as a delicate seasoning for tomato salad or other summer dishes.
How to care for oregano on the balcony?
Oregano thrives on the balcony in a sunny location with vegetable or herb soil, regular watering and targeted fertilization. Avoid waterlogging and the herb and edible flowers can be harvested during the growth phase.
Which location on the balcony does oregano prefer?
In its natural habitat, oregano grows in sunny and warm locations on calcareous soils. He should also find the same conditions on the balcony. A balcony that faces south, east or west is ideal.
Which substrate is suitable?
You can use normal vegetable soil or special herb soil as a planting substrate. Since the oregano reacts to waterlogging with rot, it is recommended to add a drainage layer of gravel or expanded clay to the plant container.
How much water does the culinary herb need?
Wild-growing oregano survives even longer dry periods without damage. If you cultivate the herb in a pot, you must water it regularly. During the hot summer weeks it may be necessary to water the oregano daily. Water whenever the soil in the pot feels dry. Since the oregano does not like wet feet, it is recommended to pour away the excess water in the saucer after a short time.
Does oregano need to be fertilized?
Provide the herb with a portion of complete fertilizer in spring. Unlike most other plants, oregano does not require any additional fertilization during the growth phase. A second fertilizer application is only made at the end of August or beginning of September, when you have completely harvested the oregano.
When is oregano harvested?
You can pick fresh leaves from the potted plant throughout the summer and use them in the kitchen. The pretty white, pink or delicate purple flowers are also edible and can be used as an attractive addition to salads. When the oregano is in full bloom, you should cut it to about a hand's width above the ground. You can preserve this harvest for the winter.
Tips & Tricks
Oregano is a pasture for bees and attracts many insects during the flowering period. If you are allergic to bee venom, you should cut off the oregano flowers before they bloom or provide adequate insect protection on windows and doors.