Pot marjoram (Origanum onites)

Pot marjoram (Origanum onites) is a perennial herb that is a part of the mint family, native to the Mediterranean region. It is known for its aromatic leaves which are used in cooking to add a mild, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor to various dishes. It is often confused with sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana), but pot marjoram has a more pungent taste and is less commonly used in cooking. The herb has a long history of use for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

**History of Pot Marjoram:**

The use of pot marjoram dates back to ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans valuing it for its therapeutic properties. It was used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, headaches, and colds. The Romans also recognized its culinary benefits and included it in various dishes and salads. Throughout history, it has been associated with love, happiness, and courage, which is why it was often included in bridal bouquets and used in love potions. In medieval Europe, pot marjoram was part of the "herbes de Provence" mix and was widely used in seasoning meats and stews. It was also believed to be a protective herb and was placed under pillows to ward off evil spirits and induce good dreams.

**How to Grow Pot Marjoram from Seed:**

Growing pot marjoram from seed is relatively easy and can be done both indoors and outdoors. Here's how you can do it:

1. **Timing:** Pot marjoram seeds can be sown indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. If you're sowing outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 65°F (18°C).

2. **Seed Preparation:** Pot marjoram seeds are quite small, so it's best to surface-sow them rather than burying them deeply. You may want to mix the seeds with some fine sand to ensure even distribution.

3. **Planting:** Fill small pots or seed trays with a well-draining seed compost. Gently press the seeds onto the surface of the soil. Do not cover with soil, as they require light to germinate. Water the seeds lightly and place in a warm, sunny location.

4. **Germination:** Germination typically takes 10-20 days. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and cover the tray with a clear plastic lid or cling film to maintain humidity. Once the seedlings appear, remove the cover to allow for air circulation and prevent damping off.

5. **Transplanting:** Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into larger individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure the soil is kept moist.

6. **Hardening Off:** If you started the seeds indoors, gradually acclimatize them to outdoor conditions over a few weeks before the final planting. Place the pots in a sheltered spot outside during the day and bring them back in at night.

7. **Final Planting:** When the seedlings are about 3-4 inches tall and all danger of frost has passed, you can plant them in their final location. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Pot marjoram prefers a location with full sun and good air circulation.

8. **Spacing:** Space the plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for good growth and airflow.

9. **Care:** Water the plants regularly but do not overwater, as marjoram prefers slightly dry conditions. Pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth. Fertilize lightly with a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring.

10. **Harvesting:** Pot marjoram can be harvested once it starts to produce leaves. For the best flavor, pick the leaves before the plant starts to flower.

Remember that pot marjoram is a perennial, so it will come back each year if the growing conditions are suitable. It's also a great herb to grow in a container if you don't have a lot of garden space.

**Note:** Pot marjoram can also be propagated by division or cuttings if you have an established plant. However, it can be a bit tricky to grow from seed, so be patient and provide the right conditions for successful germination.

Summary.

Pot marjoram (Origanum onites)

 Pot Marjoram seeds can be sown indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. If sowing outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed to 65°F (18°C). Pot marjoram seeds are quite small, so surface-sow them in small pots or seed trays with a well-draining seed compost. Do not cover with soil, as light is needed for germination. Water lightly and cover the tray with cling film to maintain humidity. Put in a warm, light location. Germination usually takes 10-20 days. Once seedlings appear, remove the film to allow air circulation. Transplant them into individual pots filled with a well-draining compost after four true leaves have grown.