The original home of oregano is the warm Mediterranean regions, where the spicy herb forms large carpets of flowers. These smell wonderfully aromatic in the summer months and serve as a valuable source of food for numerous insects.
Which location is best for oregano?
The ideal location for oregano is a warm, sunny spot with slightly calcareous, permeable and nutrient-poor soil. A south, east or west orientation is well suited for cultivation in herb beds, rock gardens or on the balcony.
Oregano loves the sun
Wild oregano thrives in these areas preferably on dry meadows and on sparse forest edges. If the herb finds optimal conditions, it grows ever denser and overgrows large areas over the years.
The optimal location conditions
Oregano also loves a warm location in the garden and slightly calcareous, permeable and rather nutrient-poor soil. A spot in full sun or partial shade in the rock garden or herb bed is ideal. Loosen up loamy garden soil with some quartz sand (€15.00 on Amazon) or lava gravel. This prevents waterlogging, to which oregano is very sensitive.
If you want to cultivate oregano on the balcony or windowsill, the location should, if possible, face south. The plant also thrives on an east or west balcony.
Provide winter protection despite the optimal location
Oregano is a hardy, robust and perennial perennial. Nevertheless, sufficient cold protection in the herb bed is advisable. In autumn, cover the soil around the herb with a layer of leaves and cover the oregano with twigs. In mild regions, you can overwinter potted plants in a protected spot on the balcony, provided they are provided with suitable winter protection. Alternatively, a frost-free and bright room is suitable for wintering.
Allergy sufferers beware
The fragrant flowers of oregano are a popular pasture for bees. If you have allergy sufferers in your household, you should therefore ensure there is sufficient distance from entrances, windows and frequently used areas of the garden or balcony. If this is not possible, it is recommended to consistently remove the flowers of the herb that appear from June onwards.
Tips & Tricks
The sunnier and brighter the oregano is, the higher the essential oil content in the leaves.