Oregano
Origanum vulgare
Also known asWild marjoram · Greek oregano · Italian oregano · Origano
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–10 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- frost hardy
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.8 |
Aquaponics suitability
Not recommended
Fish waste alone doesn't supply enough of what this crop demands. Grows in hybrid systems with supplemental dosing, but expect active management.
Care notes
An easy, long-lived perennial herb for hydroponic systems. EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-8.0 (tolerates alkaline conditions). Temperature: 15–30°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to zone 4). Full sun (DLI 16-25 mol/m2/day; the essential oil concentration is highest with strong light). Well-drained media preferred. Any hydroponic system works, though container growing with excellent drainage suits the Mediterranean habit. From seed or cutting to first harvest: 6-8 weeks. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches freely when pinched. The flavor is strongest just before flowering. For drying (the most common preservation method): cut whole stems, hang in bundles, and strip leaves once dry, or dehydrate at 35–40°C. Dried oregano in a sealed jar retains good flavor for 12-18 months. Greek oregano (specify when buying seed or plants) is the type for pizza, pasta sauce, and Greek cooking. Propagation by stem cuttings, division, or seed. A single well-maintained oregano plant provides enough dried herb for a household indefinitely.