Spicy oregano gives many Mediterranean dishes the right kick. So that the herb can fully develop its full aroma in dishes such as tomato sauce or moussaka, it is important that you harvest and preserve oregano correctly.
When and how do I harvest oregano correctly?
The best time to harvest oregano is from late June to early August, just before or during flowering, when the aroma is intense. Harvest early in the morning on a sunny day, cutting branches above a branch and removing damaged leaves.
The right time for harvesting
Oregano can be plucked fresh from the perennial throughout the summer and added to salads, soups, sauces, meat dishes, pasta and egg dishes. Oregano does not require much care: give it a sunny and not too humid place in the herb garden and it will thrive.
When does oregano taste best?
In contrast to many other herbs, oregano develops its most intense aroma shortly before and during flowering. The harvest time is therefore from the end of June to the beginning of August. At this point it is worth cutting larger quantities of oregano and preserving it. The delicious herb preserves its aroma best when dried.
Harvest herbs early in the morning
Since oregano is a sun worshiper, you should harvest it in the morning hours of a sunny day if possible. The taste is particularly intense if the oregano has been able to soak up a lot of sun in the previous days. Avoid harvesting when the weather is cool and rainy, as the plant tastes significantly less aromatic at this time.
If you harvest oregano correctly, you can preserve the aroma of summer for the cold season. Cut the oregano branches preferably above a branch. This encourages the oregano to grow bushy and strong. Remove brown and damaged leaves and coarse dirt directly during harvest.
You need for the harvest:
- Sharp cutting tool. Kitchen or gardening knives that need to be cleaned well beforehand are suitable.
- A harvesting container in which you can place the branches loosely without bending.
Depending on your preferred method of preservation, you should:
- Ice cube trays for freezing
- Binding twine or drying frames covered with gauze
- an adjustable dehydrator
keep ready. If you would like to dry the oregano, you will also need airtight, tinted storage containers for storage.
The valuable ingredients
In addition to the essential oils that give oregano its unique taste, the herb contains tannins, bitter substances and many secondary plant substances. If you harvest and preserve oregano correctly, you can take advantage of the plant's healing powers during the winter months.
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of oregano have been proven in numerous scientific studies. Oregano is an excellent bacteria killer and has a disinfecting effect in the stomach and intestinal tract. It also stimulates the appetite and promotes digestion.
Pour hot water over half to a whole teaspoon of the herb to create an excellent remedy for sore throats and flu-like infections. Oregano is also suitable for inhaling for sinus infections.
Tips & Tricks
The oregano flowers serve as a source of food for numerous insects. Bees in particular are magically attracted to their scent. It is recommended to wear gloves to protect against stings when harvesting oregano.
