key growing information

Growing Greek Oregano From Seed

How to grow Greek oregano from seed: surface sowing for light, transplant spacing, pinching and renewal, soil and harvest.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Oregano (Greek) - Key Growing Information

Greek oregano grown from seed for container sales; dust the tiny seeds over the growing medium, lightly press, do not cover, and mist.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Seedlings appear in 7–14 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C).

SOWING:

Transplants are recommended: sow in flats 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Scatter seed over the surface and press it into the mix, leaving it uncovered since it needs light to sprout, and keep it moist until it comes up. Move seedlings into their own containers
at 4 true leaves. Plant out once spring frost danger is over, 12" apart in rows 18" apart. For healthy plants, pinch back new growth, cut out old wood at the end of winter, and replace plants every 4 years.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun to partial shade.SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Does best in sandy soil with good drainage; rich soil can dull its strong aroma.

PLANT HEIGHT:

Grows about 8–24" tall.

PLANT SPACING:

Space plants 12" apart.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Hardy in Zones 4–9.

HARVEST:

Cut whole stems about 2" above the base just as the plants start to bloom. Established plants can be cut back two to six times in a season.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Origanum vulgare hirtum