DAYS TO GERMINATION: 7-14 days and 18–21°C.

SOWING: Transplant (recommended): Sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Tamp seeds lightly into the soil mix or sow shallowly, as light is required for germination. Transplant to individual containers when seedlings have 4 true leaves. Transplant outside in spring after the last frost, spacing plants 20cm apart, in rows 30-45cm apart.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Prefers a light, well-drained soil that is somewhat alkaline.

PLANT HEIGHT: 15-25cm.

PLANT SPACING: 20cm

HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 4-8.

HARVEST: Leaves may be harvested for use when plants reach 15cm. Harvest the flowers as they begin blooming, usually about 90 days after planting. In the autumn, entire plants may be harvested by cutting the plants near the ground. Dry them out of direct sunlight, then strip the leaves from the woody stems.

Note: Cut back the plant in the autumn, and pinch out new shoots in the spring to encourage a full habit.

Winter Savory can also be propagated by root division in autumn or spring.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Satureja montana