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Marjoram, a delightfully aromatic herb, is prized for its sweet, mild flavor and versatility in the kitchen. This step-by-step guide will help you grow and enjoy your own fresh marjoram.
Choosing Your Marjoram Variety
Marjoram has many variants, including sweet marjoram, pot marjoram, and winter marjoram, each with its own unique aroma and flavor. Sweet marjoram is typically preferred for its sweeter, milder flavour.
Planting Marjoram
- When to Plant: Marjoram seeds should be planted indoors in late winter or directly outdoors in late spring after the last frost.
- Where to Plant: Choose a location with full sun to light shade and well-draining soil.
- How to Plant: Sow seeds just below the soil surface, about ¼ inch deep and 12-18 inches apart.
Caring for Your Marjoram
- Watering: Water marjoram regularly but be careful not to over water. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Feeding: A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring will generally suffice.
- Pruning: Regularly trim your marjoram plants to promote a bushy growth and prevent flowering.
Harvesting and Storing Marjoram
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plants have reached about 6 inches in height, ideally before flowering for the best flavor.
- How to Store: Fresh marjoram leaves can be used immediately or refrigerated in a plastic bag for up to a week. For longer storage, dry or freeze the leaves.
Growing marjoram at home can be a rewarding endeavour. Its fragrant leaves not only enhance your culinary dishes but also brighten up your garden with their lush green hue.