Herb, Oregano

 Oregano  Origanum vulgare Well suited for growing in containers as well as the garden. Oregano must be planted in a full sun location and good drainage is required for best growth and overwintering. To help insure winter survival a winter mulch of evergreen boughs or straw applied in November or December after the soil has frozen is helpful. This is then removed as growth resumes in the spring. Transplant (recommended): Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds on the surface of the soil, gently pressing them in, as light is necessary for germination. Keep moist. Transplant into individual containers when seedlings are large enough to handle. Pinch out the growing tip of the plants to promote branching and higher yields. After the last frost, transplant out at 6-8" spacing in rows 18" apart.Direct seed: Sow seeds after the last frost. Scatter the seeds, 2-3 seeds per inch, in a narrow band on top of the prepared soil and tamp gently into place, as seeds require l