How to Prune Oregano
Oregano is a perennial herb that can be grown in the garden or in containers. It is commonly used to add flavor to cooked dishes when used fresh or dried. Frequent pruning of oregano plants promote a steady supply of the herb and helps produce full, lush growth. Oregano is moderately winter hardy but requires some protection against the cold. Proper pruning minimizes winter damage. Though oregano remains evergreen in some climates, heavy pruning causes new growth that is easily damaged by frost.
Cut back the oregano to within 1 inch of the crown six weeks after planting or after new growth begins in spring. Do not cut into the crown, which is the area where the stems meet the roots. Leave at least one leaf on each stem.
- Oregano is a perennial herb that can be grown in the garden or in containers.
- Though oregano remains evergreen in some climates, heavy pruning causes new growth that is easily damaged by frost.
Prune the plant back every six weeks throughout summer. Each pruning supplies foliage for kitchen use and forces new, fuller growth on the plant.
Stop pruning the oregano in September, or eight weeks before the first expected fall frost. New growth forced from the last pruning requires time to mature enough to survive frost.
Trim off single stems for use during winter on evergreen oregano plants. Cut the stem back by up to half its length for daily use. Light pruning in this manner doesn't prompt tender new growth.
- Prune the plant back every six weeks throughout summer.
- Each pruning supplies foliage for kitchen use and forces new, fuller growth on the plant.
Prune Oregano
Oregano, a perennial herb, seasons spaghetti sauce and other Italian dishes. Cut back the stems of the oregano plant using pruning shears to a height of 2 or 3 inches about six weeks after planting. The term "deadhead" simply refers to removing dead or wilted flowers from the plant to make room for new growth. If the oregano plant gets plenty of sun and water, you may be able to harvest it every six to eight weeks. During dry or particularly hot summers, you may only need to prune your oregano once near the beginning of the season and once near the end. After pruning, new growth takes time to mature and if you prune your oregano plant too late in the season the new growth will not have time to mature before the first frost.
Tip
Dry the excess foliage after hard pruning in summer. Spread the leaves out in a dry, well-ventilated location for a week. Store the dried leaves in an airtight container.
Mulching helps oregano survive winter frost.
Related Articles
References
- Ohio State University Extension: Oregano
- North Carolina State University; Winterizing the Herb Garden; Linda Blue, et al.; January 1999
- Ohio State University Extension: Oregano
- HerbGardening.com: Oregano
- The Herb Society of America: Oregano and Marjoram
- NC State University: Winterizing the Herb Garden
Tips
- Dry the excess foliage after hard pruning in summer. Spread the leaves out in a dry, well-ventilated location for a week. Store the dried leaves in an airtight container.
- Mulching helps oregano survive winter frost.
Writer Bio
Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.
