Summer Savory

Summer savory grows best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It prefers full sun to partial shade and does not do well in extremely hot or humid climates. Before planting, amend the soil with compost and well-rotted manure. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Summer savory can also be grown in containers with well-draining soil and placed in a sunny location.

After danger of frost has passed sow seeds 1/4" deep, 3" apart, in rows 18" apart.  Germination will occur in 7-14 days.  After germination has occurred, thin to one plant every six inches. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before last frost.

To transplant summer savory, wait until the seedlings are at least 3 inches tall and have at least two sets of leaves. Dig a hole in the soil that is slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling. Carefully remove the seedling from its current container or location, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the seedling in the hole and gently pack soil around it, pressing down lightly to remove any air pockets. Water the seedling thoroughly to help it establish in its new location. Space summer savory seedlings 6-12 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation.

Insect Pests

Diseases & Other Problems

To harvest summer savory, wait until the plant is at least 6 inches tall and has developed a bushy habit, then snip off the stems with a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. You can harvest the leaves as needed throughout the growing season or harvest the entire plant at once just before it begins to flower. To store summer savory, rinse the stems and leaves in cool water, pat dry, and tie them in small bunches with string. Hang the bunches upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area until they are brittle, then remove the leaves and store in an airtight container away from direct light and heat. Alternatively, you can chop the leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays with water or oil for later use in cooking.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Outcrossing in oregano is generally not a concern as very few distinct varieties exist. No special isolation techniques are required in order to save seed.

HARVESTING SEED:

To harvest seeds from summer savory, wait until the flowers have bloomed and turned brown and the seeds are fully formed, usually in late summer or early fall. Cut the stems and place them upside down in a paper bag. Leave the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area for a week or two, shaking it occasionally to release the seeds. Once the seeds have fallen out of the flowers and into the bag, remove the stems and other debris and store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

SEED LONGETIVITY: