When to Plant Oregano
Hardy perennial herb essential to Italian and Mediterranean cooking. Drought-tolerant, spreading, and nearly indestructible.
The Short Answer
How to Grow Oregano
Oregano's flavor actually intensifies when dried — one of the few herbs where the dried form is arguably superior to fresh for cooking. Greek oregano has the strongest, most authentic flavor; Italian oregano is milder; Mexican oregano (actually a different plant entirely) has its own distinct character for Latin cuisines. In the garden, oregano is a low-maintenance perennial that spreads by underground runners — not aggressively like mint, but steadily. Shear the plant by half when it begins to flower to encourage a fresh flush of leaves and prevent the woody center that develops in older, untrimmed plants.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Begin oregano seeds indoors 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures of at least 55°F to germinate, which typically takes 10-15 days. Provide 12 hours of light per day using a south-facing window or grow lights.
Transplanting
Move seedlings outside 0 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 55°F. Harden off seedlings for 7 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Direct Sowing
Oregano can be direct sown 0 weeks after your last frost date. Plant seeds 0.125" deep, spaced 12" apart.
Growing Tips
Pinch flower buds to keep producing leaves. Dried oregano is actually more flavorful than fresh. Hardy perennial in zones 5-10 — plant once, harvest for years.
Companion Planting
Good companions:
Keep away from:
Oregano Planting Dates by State
Click your state for oregano planting dates specific to your location:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026