Grow Great Marjoram in Your Home Garden

The herb marjoram was called "joy of the mountains" by the Ancient Greeks. It was used in weddings and funerals. It was also thought to cure rheumatism. In modern times we grow marjoram in our herb garden and use it for cooking and herbal remedies. Here are some tips to help you grow marjoram in your home garden.

Marjoram is a perennial and will make it through the winter months in temperature zones 9 and 10. In other zones it is grown as an annual. The plants usually grow to about 1 foot tall. Marjoram has a gentle fragrance. It can be used in potpourris and other crafts. It will also add wonderful flavor to your stews, marinades, dressings, herb butters, cheese spreads, soups, stuffings and flavored vinegars and oils.

Plant marjoram in soil that is well drained. It will grow best in full sun. The seeds of the marjoram plant are very small and they take a while to germinate. Because of this, you should start them inside about 6 weeks before the last spring frost is expected. The seeds are very small and it is easiest to start them in a seed pan. You can transplant them into a seedling flat once they sprout. While you are growing them inside, you should keep them away from direct sunlight.

Once all threat of frost has passed, plant in the ground about 8 inches apart. If you would like to keep them growing throughout the winter months, just dig them up and re-plant them in containers. Then, once the warm weather is back, plant them again outdoors.

Marjoram can be harvested 5 to 6 weeks after it has been transplanted into your home garden. If the plant has started growing well before that time, it is acceptable to harvest a bit before that time. It is possible to harvest this herb throughout the growing season to keep a fresh supply handy in your kitchen. To keep the plant from becoming woody, be sure to keep the flowers and leaves trimmed. The usable parts are the flowers and leaves, so if there is too much stem, you will not get as much usable herb.

Marjoram also will keep a large amount of its flavor when it is dried, as well. It should be dried in a dark, dry area. If you dry it properly, it will keep much of its color and flavor. Once it is dried, rub the leaves off of the stems and store the leaves in an airtight container.

The herb marjoram is a wonderful addition to your herb garden. It can be used in so many recipes, it is a must have in your pantry. Hopefully, these tips will help you grow all the marjoram you and your family will need.

SOURCE

Editors "Better Homes and Gardens" magazine. "New Garden Book". 1990. Better Homes and Gardens Books. Des Moines, Iowa.

Editors of Rodale Organic Gardening Magazine and Books. "Rodale Organic Gardening Basics: Herbs Volume 5". 2001. Pennsylvania, USA.