Marjoram
Origanum majorana
Happy and carefree in the garden, marjoram packages a spicy-sweet flavor in its bright green leaves. Plants quickly cover well-drained, fertile soil with flavorful foliage. Marjoram thrives in containers and hanging baskets, which showcase trailing stems nicely. Give plants a little shade during the hottest parts of the day in the warmest zones. In regions where marjoram won’t survive winter, grow this spicy herb in pots, or dig and pot a portion of an in-ground plant before hard frosts threaten. Frequent harvests throughout the growing season produce a bushy plant. In the kitchen, brew a relaxing tea by combining 1/2 cup each marjoram and mint with 1 cup hot water. Steep, strain, and sip.
Light: Part sun, Sun
Type: Annual, Herb, Perennial
Height: Under 6 inches to 3 feet
Width: 12-18 inches wide
Flower color: Pink, Red, White
Seasonal features: Summer bloom
Problem solvers: Deer resistant, Drought tolerant, Groundcover, Slope/Erosion Control
Special features: Attracts birds, Good for containers, Low maintenance
Zones: 8-11
How to Grow Marjoram Herbs
Although marjoram plants are tender perennials, they are typically treated as annuals as freezing temperatures will cause serious injury or death to the plants.
Marjoram should be located in areas receiving full sun with light, well-drained soil. Likewise, marjoram plants can be grwon in containers indoors and treated as houseplants.When growing marjoram plants, it’s generally best to start the seeds indoors during late winter or early spring. Push seeds just below the soil surface. Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors once all threat of frost has passed.
Marjoram Plant Care
Established plants require little care, other than occasional watering. Since marjoram is tolerant of drought, it makes an exceptional plant for beginner herb growers. If you forget to water it, that’s okay.
There’s no need for fertilizer either when growing marjoram herbs. It’s hardy enough to basically care for itself.
During mild weather, marjoram plants grown indoors can be taken outside and placed in a sunny area. However, container-grown plants should always be moved indoors or to another sheltered location once cold temperatures or frost is imminent.
Harvesting and Drying Marjoram Plants
In addition to growing marjoram herbs for aesthetic purposes, many people harvest the plant for use in the kitchen. When harvesting marjoram, pick the shoots just before flowers begin to open. This results in the best flavor, as fully opened blooms produce a bitter taste. Bundle marjoram cuttings and hang them upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area.
