How to grow Marjoram in Australia
A Mediterranean herb for full sun in light, well-drained soil. Water moderately and let it dry between drinks, as it dislikes wet roots and thrives on the lean side.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 25 cm
- Time to harvest: 75 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 8
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to October | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to October | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to October | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | September to November | Sow or plant Sep to Nov once frosts finish. Less hardy than oregano; grow it in a pot in frosty outer suburbs and shelter it over winter. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to October | |
| Perth & WA | March to October | |
| Tasmania | September to November | Plant Sep to Nov. Slightly more tender than oregano - give it the sunnier spot. |
| Canberra & ACT | October to December | Sow under cover in Oct and plant out Nov to Dec after the last frost in early November. Hard frost kills it, so grow it as an annual or winter a pot under cover. |
| North Queensland | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Marjoram sulks and rots in wet season humidity, so treat it like oregano. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Marjoram sulks and rots in wet season humidity, so treat it like oregano. |
Varieties
- Sweet Marjoram
- Italian Oregano (hybrid)
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Snip sprigs once the plant is bushy, with flavour at its best just before flowering. Cut stems above a leaf pair, and it regrows for repeat picking.
Storage
Fridge loosely wrapped, up to 1 week. Dries very well by hanging.