When can I plant oregano outside?

Direct sow or transplant right around your last spring frost.

How long until oregano is ready to harvest?

80-90 days. Harvest stems just before flowers open for peak flavor; cut back to 2-3 inches to encourage bushy regrowth

When to Plant Oregano

Origanum vulgare

herbZones 4–10beginner

Robust perennial herb essential for Italian, Greek, and Mexican cooking. More flavorful dried than fresh. Spreading ground cover that requires minimal care once established.

Planting calendar

Start seeds indoors

8 weeks before your last spring frost.

Direct sow / transplant

Right around your last spring frost.

Perennial in zones 5-10; divide every 3-4 years; flavor best in lean, well-drained soil

Spacing & harvest

Plant spacing: 8-12 inches
Row spacing: 12-18 inches
Days to harvest: 80-90 days
Ready when: Harvest stems just before flowers open for peak flavor; cut back to 2-3 inches to encourage bushy regrowth

Companion planting

Plant near

Bell Pepper — Repels aphids
Tomato — Repels aphids and provides ground cover

Get oregano planting dates for your exact zone

Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.

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Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns