Marjoram, Sweet Origanum majorana
Sweet marjoram is a Mediterranean tender, culinary herb with disinfectant and preserving qualities. Flavor is milder than closely related oregano. Grow as a border plant or groundcover. Seed heads provide winter feed for birds and flowers attract butterflies and bees.
Size: 10-15" tall x 18-24" wide
Growing Requirements
Full Sun
Plant in well-drained soil with minimal amendment and water. Excess pampering will result in less developed flavor.
When to Plant
Sow outdoors after the last frost.
Culture & Care
Keep trimmed back to prevent flowering. Cut back by one-third in midspring to maintain a compact shape, and shear lightly several through summer to keep neat. Removing flowers as they appear will promote new leaf growth.
Harvest
Begin harvesting leaves when plants are 4-6″ tall and before flowers begin blooming in midsummer when leaves are at their most aromatic. Flowering brings about bitter flavor in leaves. Gather individual leaves for immediate use or harvest whole stems for drying and storage. Dry by hanging sprigs upside down in a paper bag; store in jars.
Uses
Apply t insect stings. Fresh leaves can season vegetable, pasta dishes, vinaigrettes, and fish. Add at end of cooking to maintain flavor.
Reference
Carrots Love Tomatoes byHerbs for Texas by
The Vegetable Gardener's Bible by
