How to grow oregano in a raised bed

Oregano is the pizza-and-pasta herb — a spreading, sun-loving perennial that's tougher and more pungent the leaner and drier you grow it. A raised-bed edge suits it perfectly.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 30 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth; sharp drainage
• Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks

When to plant: Oregano is a perennial — plant in spring or autumn. It grows year-round in warm areas. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into free-draining mix in full sun. Don't pamper it — the best flavour comes from lean soil and plenty of sun. Trim regularly to keep it from going leggy.

Watering and feeding: Water sparingly once established. Like most Mediterranean herbs, it prefers dry to wet.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

Common problems: the main one to watch is powdery mildew and rust, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

Companion plants: A good all-round companion, and the flowers are excellent for bees and hoverflies. See our companion planting guide.

Harvest and storage: Pick sprigs as needed; oregano's flavour actually intensifies when dried, so it's a great herb to preserve.

More growing guides: marjoram, thyme and rosemary.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Ivar Leidus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.