By Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA and Ben Barkan
Oregano is a flavorful herb that adds a delightful touch to any herb garden. Proper pruning is essential for ensuring that your oregano plant thrives and produces abundant, aromatic leaves. Here’s a detailed guide on how to care for, prune, and harvest oregano throughout the year.
Method 1: Caring for Oregano During the Growing Season
Step 1: Wait Until the Plant is Established
- Allow your oregano plant to grow to at least 4 inches (10 cm) tall before pruning. Trimming too early can hinder the plant’s growth. Oregano typically grows quickly, so you won’t have to wait long.
Step 2: Prune Conservatively
- Cut back no more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent over-pruning. Pruning encourages new growth, including more leaves and stems.
Step 3: Cut the Stems Individually
- Use scissors or small pruning shears to make clean cuts above the leaves. Cutting several stems at once can be done, but it’s best to cut one stalk at a time for precision.
Step 4: Pinch Off the Stems
- For a quick and easy pruning method, use your fingernails to pinch off the stems just above the leaves. Hold the base of the stem with your other hand to avoid damaging the rest of the stalk.
Step 5: Collect the Pruned Stems
- Set aside the pruned stems in a clean, dry container if you plan to use them in the kitchen. Continue pruning until you’ve trimmed all the desired stems. Green stems can be used in cooking, while dead stems should be composted or discarded.
Method 2: Tending to Dormant Oregano
Step 1: Deadhead the Flowers
- After the flowers fade at the end of summer, deadhead them to direct the plant’s nutrients toward new growth. Use scissors or pruning shears to cut just below the flowers, or pinch off the old flowers if they are dead or dying.
Step 2: Stop Pruning Before Cold Weather
- Cease pruning at least two weeks before cold weather is forecast to protect the plant during winter. Rely on dried herbs stored from the growing season for winter use.
Step 3: Remove Dead Stems in Winter
- In late winter, prepare the oregano for spring regrowth by removing dead, brown stems lacking leaves. Trim them down to the base of the plant, just above the roots.
Step 4: Fertilize the Plant
- Apply an organic liquid fertilizer to provide extra nutrients for the next growing season. Mix the fertilizer with water and pour it over the plant during its next watering, following the label instructions for the correct amount.
Method 3: Harvesting Oregano
Step 1: Harvest Before Flowering
- The best time to harvest oregano is just before the plant flowers, as this is when the herb is most flavorful. You can also harvest small amounts as needed for fresh use. Morning is the ideal time to harvest, after the dew has dried.
Step 2: Cut the Stems
- Place your scissors one-third of the way down the stem, between the leaves, to avoid damaging them. You can harvest less but not more than this amount.
Step 3: Remove Just the Leaves
- For smaller harvests, run your fingers along the stem to remove just the leaves. Collect the leaves in a clean, dry container for kitchen use. Cut away the bare stem with scissors.
By following these methods, you can ensure that your oregano plant remains healthy and productive, providing you with a steady supply of fresh, aromatic herbs. Happy gardening! 🌿🍃