Winter savory
Satureja montana
Also known asMountain savory · Sarriette des montagnes · Sariette · Saturei
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 5–9 (winter low around -29°C)
- Frost
- very hardy (survives deep cold)
- 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 |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| 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 | 0.6 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.3 |
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 container growing. Container (10 L) with well-drained media. EC 1.0-1.5 mS/cm (very light feeder). pH 6.5-8.0 (tolerates alkaline conditions). Temperature: 10–28°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to zone 5). Full sun (DLI 16-22 mol/m2/day). Growth is slow and compact. Harvest by cutting stem tips. The flavor is strongest in fresh leaves during the growing season but the plant provides harvestable leaves year-round in mild climates because of its semi-evergreen habit. For drying: harvest before flowering, dry at 35–40°C. Compatible in a Mediterranean herb grouping with rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano. Propagation by stem cuttings, division, or seed. The woody, low-growing habit makes winter savory suitable as an edible border or ground cover in herb gardens. A practical perennial that produces indefinitely with minimal care.