A Quick Guide to Oregano: Why It's the Best + Planting

What is oregano?

The term oregano comes from the Greek words “oros” and “ganos” which literally means mountain and joy respectively. In simpler terms, the Greeks have long referred to it as “joy of the mountain,” as it originates from their hilly countryside. And over the years, it has slowly paved its way around town and claimed its rightful position as part of almost every household’s kitchen and medicinal cabinets.

Thanks to its camphoraceous aroma and distinct taste, it has easily become one of the most popular and widely-used mint across the globe. It has long been used to add spice to different recipes and to treat specific ailments. It is native to temperate regions and used as a highlight to most Mediterranean dishes.

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What does oregano taste like?

Oregano has this savory flavor that the culinary world just can’t resist. It has a distinct balance of both being earthy and bitter at the same time, making it an easy showstopper to just about any dish.

Unlike most herbs, oregano is more pungent when fresh than dried. With this, it is often produced in dried or powdered packs, to give users more control.

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Why is it important? What are its benefits?

For sure, it won’t be coined by the Greeks as “joy of the mountain” for no reason. Of all the promising benefits it offers, let us discuss at least a few to support such a claim.

Culinary use

Some of the most common culinary uses of oregano include tomato-based and olive oil-based dishes. Moreover, it’s often present in your favorite Italian vinaigrette, pizza, spaghetti sauce, and even chili. It is also an excellent spice used for lamb, chicken, and beef marinades. Ultimately, it is a great garnish to add for plating—but in moderation, of course, as to avoid coming out as too overpowering.

Key takeaway: It’s best paired with olive oil or tomato!

Medicinal use

In addition to the benefits it brings in terms of added taste, it’s also viewed as a good healing agent for so many reasons.

This popular herb is packed with multiple helpful properties like vitamins (A, C, and K) and minerals (calcium, iron, and manganese), dietary fiber, antioxidants (which helps prevent cell damage), and further anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial compositions.

Extracted oil from the oregano plant may be used as a remedy for health concerns like nausea, cough, colds, sore throat, cold sores, nausea, and indigestion, among many others. This may be applied topically or through aromatherapy.

Note: Make sure to store in a clean and dry place, dilute with a carrier oil when necessary, and consult with your doctor for optimal results.

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How to grow and propagate oregano with container gardening?

With all its benefits laid out, I’m pretty sure you’re as pumped about getting your hands on it ASAP as most people. Forget about depending so much on your local markets, and why don’t you grow your supply at home? This way, you get to ensure they’re fresh and healthy.

Propagate in three methods:

Seeds. You can begin by softly pattering the seeds on a pot and then covering them with a thin layer of soil after.
Cuttings. You can also opt to take stem cuttings (about 7 to 10 inches long) from a healthy plant. After cutting them using a sterilized knife, remove the leaves from their lower half, and then place the cuttings in water afterward.
Division. You can also try carefully splitting up its roots and then planting them in different pots.

Requirements:

Pot. The size of your container depends on the variety of oregano that you choose to plant. Generally, a wide and 8 to 10 inches-deep pot should be alright. Also, repot every 3 years to avoid woodiness.
Soil. Use potting soil instead of garden soil. Potting soils ensure moisture, nutrients, and air, unlike the latter which is too heavy and highly-compacted.
Temperature and light. It’s best when planted in temperate climates and positioned in areas that receive full sun. Although, it can still be planted in warmer climates, provided it won’t be overexposed to the sun’s heat. In cases like this, it would be best to provide them shades, especially during summers.
Water. Water only when necessary. Avoid getting the soil too damped.
Fertilizers. Fertilizers are great but remember that too much fertilizers can reduce its scent and flavor.
Maintenance. Harvest once it grows 4 to 6 inches tall. Prune and trim regularly to encourage more productivity.

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When is the best time to propagate oregano?

Frankly speaking, propagating can be done at any time of the year. However, for best results, it would be best to do so when its stems are still soft, preferably during spring and/or early summer.

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Where to buy oregano?

Choosing where you source your seeds or plants is an important phase to always consider. You have to make sure to get them from trusted nurseries and the likes, in order to ensure your plants’ health, safety, and productivity.

It is also best to buy plants locally knowing that they have better chances to survive and grow.

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Sources:

A Quick Guide to Oregano: Why It’s the Best + Planting

Table of Contents:

What is oregano?

What does oregano taste like?