Seeds, Oregano Za'atar (West Coast Seeds)

Low growing and compact at about 15-20cm (6-8") tall. Grow this aromatic herb in full sun in soil with good drainage or in containers. If the seeds are started indoors in early spring, it will be in bloom by mid-August, providing a magnet for bees. The plant performed really well in our summer field trials here at the farm, but as a perennial it is only hardy in Zones 9-10.

Timing
Start indoors in plug trays from late winter to mid-spring. Starting indoors is more reliable than direct sowing. Use bottom heat to achieve a constant soil temperature of 15°C (60°F) for best results. Germination occurs in 7 to 14 days.

Companion Planting
Oregano is particularly good for repelling cabbage moths, and it can be planted between rows of Brassicas for this purpose. Also good around asparagus and basil. When in bloom, oregano is highly attractive to pollinators.