Oregano is one of those herbs that’s both flavor-packed and surprisingly easy to grow at home. It thrives in warm, sunny spots and asks for very little in return—just well-drained soil and a little trimming.
If you love homemade pizza or pasta, learning how to grow oregano is a must for any kitchen gardener.
Click below to save this to Pinterest 👇
#1 Oregano loves full sun
Oregano grows best in 6–8 hours of direct sunlight. If you’re planting indoors, place it by a bright south-facing window. Outdoors, it thrives in a sunny garden bed or container on your patio.
#2 Soil must drain well
Oregano prefers light, sandy soil that doesn’t stay soggy. Use a cactus mix or add perlite to your potting soil for better drainage. Wet roots can lead to root rot, especially in cooler climates.
#3 Water sparingly
Oregano stores moisture in its leaves and doesn’t need daily watering. Let the top inch of soil dry out before you water again. Overwatering is the most common mistake with this herb.
#4 Prune for bushy growth
Oregano becomes fuller when trimmed regularly. Pinch off the top leaves every few weeks to encourage side shoots. This also prevents the plant from getting leggy or flowering too soon.
#5 Harvest before it flowers
Oregano has the most flavor right before flowering. Cut stems in the morning once the plant is 4–6 inches tall. Dry or freeze the leaves to preserve their rich, earthy aroma.
#6 Choose the right variety
There are multiple types—Greek oregano is stronger in flavor, while Italian oregano (a hybrid of oregano and marjoram) is milder. Pick the one that fits your cooking style.
#7 Bring it indoors for winter
Oregano can survive indoors during cold months if placed in a sunny spot. Trim it back and repot if needed. You can also propagate a cutting to start fresh inside.
Want to start a full indoor herb garden? Check out our guide on balcony herb gardening for more beginner tips.
Grow your own flavor!
Oregano is low-effort and full of reward. With just sun, good soil, and a little trimming, you’ll have fresh herbs year-round.
Start today—your future self (and your pasta) will thank you.
FAQ
How long does oregano take to grow?
Seed-grown oregano takes about 2 weeks to germinate and reaches harvest size in 8–10 weeks. Cuttings root faster—usually in 7–10 days.
Does oregano grow back every year?
Yes—oregano is a perennial herb in zones 5–10. In colder areas, bring it indoors or treat it as an annual.
Can I grow oregano in a pot?
Absolutely. Oregano grows very well in containers with good drainage and enough sun. Just don’t overwater!
I'm George Brown, a passionate gardener and the founder of UrbanLeafy.com. I love helping beginners grow fresh herbs, plants and greenery, whether on a windowsill, in a garden or a tiny balcony. My practical, no-fluff tips have been featured in Homes & Gardens, Livingetc, and Best Life, and are rooted in years of real experience. If you're ready to turn your space into a thriving herb haven, you’re in the right place.
