How to grow Oregano in Australia
A Mediterranean herb for full sun in light, well-drained soil. Water sparingly and let it dry between drinks, as it thrives on the lean, dry side and rots in wet ground.
At a glance
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 4 days
- Spacing: 30 cm
- Time to harvest: 90 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 8
- Frost tolerance: Frost 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 | March to October | Frost-hardy perennial herb. Melbourne cool climate suits. Extend window vs SEQ. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to October | |
| Perth & WA | March to October | |
| Tasmania | September to November | Plant Sep to Nov. Hardy perennial, dies back in hard winters and returns. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to October | Oregano is hardy perennial; sow spring-autumn; excellent in cold climate; needs drainage; divide clumps regularly. |
| North Queensland | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Oregano (perennial) prefers drier conditions. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Oregano (perennial) prefers drier conditions. |
Varieties
- Greek Oregano
- Common / Wild Oregano
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Snip sprigs once the plant is bushy, with flavour strongest just before flowering. Cut stems above a leaf pair, and trimming keeps it compact and cropping.