So you’ve decided to plant oregano in your garden this year. Great choice—oregano is a flavorful herb that adds visual interest to your garden with its tiny purple and white flowers.
But did you know that some plants make great companions for oregano, while others don’t?
Yes, many common herbs and vegetables pair well with oregano, while others are bad companions for it.
Read on to learn which plants make the best companions for your oregano and which ones you should keep on the other side of the garden.
Good Companion Plants for Oregano
Oregano grows well with certain plants in the garden that have similar light and water needs. Some great companion plants for it include:
- Rosemary
- Eggplant
- Sage
- Cabbage
- Squash
- Celery
- Lavender
- Tomatoes
- Thyme
- Strawberries
- Carrots
- Lemon balm
- Asparagus
- Peppers
- Beans
- Marjoram
What Not to Plant with Oregano
Some plants just don’t make good companions for oregano. Stay away from planting it near the listed herbs and vegetables.
- Cilantro
- Potatoes
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
- Chives
- Corn
- Basil
- Mint
Some gardeners have had success growing some of these plants with oregano. However, on the whole, they normally don’t do too well in the same bed with oregano.
For example, watermelon and cucumbers need plenty of water to keep growing, while oregano does not.
Cilantro, basil, and chives also require more water than oregano, so it’s not a good idea to plant them in the same space.
How to Grow Oregano
Start with a small plant or seeds. You can grow this herb from seed, clippings, or transplants.
Seeds are the most economical but slowest method. Cuttings and transplants will be established more quickly.
Next, choose a spot with well-drained, fertile soil, and full sun (though some varieties prefer a little shade). The soil should also be slightly alkaline, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.
Also, space the plants 8 to 12 inches apart. This will give the oregano plenty of room to spread out as it grows. It can grow quite bushy if properly cared for.
Water the plants regularly, especially for the first few months.
Fertilizer Requirements
Oregano isn’t too demanding when it comes to fertilizer. However, giving potted oregano some nutrients will promote healthy growth.
Fertilize it once a month. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as 10-10-10.
And remember, oregano doesn’t require much to thrive, so less is more when it comes to feeding this fragrant, flavorful plant.
Garden Pests
Oregano is generally pest-resistant, but a few common garden pests can affect it. Some of these critters include aphids, spider mites, cutworms, and thrips [1].
While pests are typically minor issues for this herb, keeping a close watch and taking action at the first signs of infestation will help ensure your oregano remains healthy and productive.
Plant Diseases
Oregano can also be susceptible to a few plant diseases, especially if conditions are not ideal. Be on the lookout for powdery mildew, anthracnose, and rust.
By regularly monitoring your oregano plant, you can catch many common plant diseases early and take steps to prevent major damage.
How to Harvest Oregano
Once your oregano is ready to start flowering, it’s ready to harvest. The best time to harvest is in the morning, when the leaves are full of moisture.
To harvest, gently pluck individual leaves from the stems. You can also harvest stems along with the leaves.
Bundle 4-6 stems together, tie off at the base with twine, and hang upside down in a cool, dry, airy place away from direct sunlight.
How to Store
Storing oregano properly helps retain its flavor and aroma.
One of the easiest ways to preserve it is by drying the leaves. Pick oregano sprigs, tie the stems together, and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, and dark place.
Store the dried oregano in an airtight container, away from heat and light. It will last up to a year.
You can also dry oregano in the oven at 180 F for 2 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the leaves are crisp. Spread the leaves on a baking sheet and check often.
Freezing is another option. To freeze oregano, wash and pat the sprigs dry, then strip the leaves from the stems.
Next, pack the leaves in an airtight container or sealable plastic bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing and freezing.
Frozen oregano will also last up to a year. Add frozen oregano directly to dishes, as the leaves will soften quickly after thawing.
Store dried or fresh oregano away from heat, light, and moisture. Properly stored, oregano can be enjoyed for months after harvesting. Following these tips will help you get the most from your oregano harvest.
Where to Buy Seeds
When it comes to buying seeds, you have a few good options. Check out gardening stores in your area. They will have packets of seeds tailored to your region and climate.
For a wide selection, shop online. Many seed companies offer heirloom and organic oregano seeds. Popular options include SeedsNow and Johnny’s Selected Seeds.
Order early to get seeds in time for your growing season.
Takeaway
So you see, oregano can work well with some plants and not so well with others in your garden. The key is choosing companions that have similar light and water needs so they can thrive together.
With the right pairings, you can have a thriving garden. Your garden will also benefit from the natural pest control and pollination the combinations provide.
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