Origanum Marjorana - Sweet Marjoram

Growing Information: Plant in well-drained soil and full sun after last frost. Space plants 6 to 8 inches apart. Fertilize with a dilute balanced fertilizer after harvesting to encourage regrowth. Bring healthy plants indoors during winter in cold climates. Pinch back often to keep bushy and prevent seed set.

Propagation: Start seed indoors 6 weeks before last frost. Use sterile growing mix to prevent damping off and sprinkle gently to water. Propagate by division or cuttings.

Possible Problems: None serious.

Harvesting and Using: Cut just before flowering for richest flavor. Harvest as needed for everyday use. The leaves and flower buds are good fresh or dried with chicken, cheese, vegetables, soups, potpourri, and teas.

Related Herbs: Marjoram is part of the oregano genus, which includes many similar herbs. See also Oregano.

Hardy hybrid sweet marjoram (O. x marjoricum) is slightly more pungent than sweet marjoram. It is hardy to about 0°F.

Pot marjoram (O. onites) is a tender perennial with heart-shaped leaf bases and white or purple flowers. It has a stronger flavor than sweet marjoram.

Dittany of Crete (O. dictamnus) is a tender perennial with furry silver leaves on 12-inch-high plants. It has attractive bracts surrounding pink flowers. Because the oregano scent is subdued, you'll enjoy dittany of Crete most as an ornamental container, pot, or rock-garden plant.