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 1.5-2.0 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5 (tolerates alkaline conditions). Temperature: 13–28°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to about zone 4). Full sun (DLI 18-25 mol/m2/day; essential-oil concentration is highest under strong light). Prefers well-drained media. Any hydroponic system works, though container growing with excellent drainage suits its Mediterranean habit. From seed or cutting to first harvest: 6-8 weeks. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches freely when pinched, and flavour is strongest just before flowering. For drying, the usual preservation method, cut whole stems, hang them in bundles and strip the leaves once dry, or dehydrate at 35–40°C; dried oregano in a sealed jar holds good flavour for 12-18 months. Greek oregano (specify when buying seed or plants) is the type for pizza, pasta sauce and Greek cooking. Propagate by stem cuttings, division or seed. One well-kept plant can supply a household's dried oregano more or less indefinitely.