The hyssop plants need a lot of sun, dry, calcareous soil and a place protected from the wind in the herb bed to thrive. In the home garden, hyssop can also be planted between other vegetable plants. Its intense scent drives away pests.
How is hyssop grown in the garden?
Hyssop cultivation requires plenty of sun, dry, calcareous soil and wind-protected conditions. Sowing takes place in the greenhouse or windowsill from February or directly outdoors in May. The plant is frost-resistant and undemanding, ideal next to thyme and sage.
Hyssop is a perennial subshrub common from the Mediterranean region to the Altai Mountains. Due to its frost resistance, it can also be cultivated outdoors in Germany. A wind-protected herb bed in full sun next to thyme and sage is ideal.
When and how is hyssop sown?
Hyssop can be grown in the greenhouse (€94.00 on Amazon) or on the windowsill from February or sown directly outdoors in May. The seeds germinate in light and are not covered with soil. The sowing is kept moist.
Does hyssop have special location requirements?
The plant is considered to be very warm-loving, but otherwise rather undemanding. A lime-rich, permeable soil in a wind-protected, sunny location is sufficient. Even in midsummer you don't have to worry about watering, the drought is tolerated without any problems.
How does hyssop get along with other garden plants?
Hyssop is popular with bees and butterflies, but not with snails, caterpillars and aphids. Planting between vegetables that are susceptible to pest attack is therefore recommended. Hyssop also makes a good, easy-care rose companion.
How long does hyssop bloom?
The flowering period extends from June to October. The flowers are deep blue, rarely light pink. Pruning is carried out immediately after flowering to prevent the plant from becoming bald.
Which parts of the plant are harvested for seasoning?
Young leaves, shoot tips and flowers can be harvested from June onwards and used (sparingly) to season various dishes:
- for marinating grilled meat,
- for salads and raw vegetables (e.g. tomatoes),
- in quark dishes, sauces, dips, herb butter,
- in soups and meat dishes,
- as an ingredient in herbal tea.
How is hyssop propagated?
Hyssop can easily be propagated by seeds, which can be purchased or taken from existing plants. If the location is suitable, the undemanding plant also likes to sow itself.
Tip
Hyssop should be used fresh after harvest. Its herb can also be dried, but the aroma diminishes after drying.
