Growing savory can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. Whether you choose to sow the seeds directly into the garden soil or start them in pots, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure successful growth.
1. Planting: Savory can be sown directly into the garden soil in the spring when the soil has warmed up and there is no longer a risk of frost. Alternatively, you can start the seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them outdoors once the weather is favorable. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in pots or trays filled with well-draining potting soil. Plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep and cover lightly with soil.
2. Watering: Once the seeds are planted, water them gently to ensure the soil is evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to rotting. Throughout the growth period, water the plants regularly but be cautious not to water too frequently. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
3. Soil and Sunlight: Summer savory thrives in a rich, well-draining soil. If your garden soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure. This will help the roots to grow properly and allow for better water absorption. Savory also requires plenty of sunlight, so choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
4. Feeding: Savory doesn’t require excessive feeding and can generally grow well without the need for additional fertilizers. However, if your soil is poor in nutrients, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. This will provide a gentle and consistent supply of nutrients to the plants throughout their growth.
5. Pruning: Regular pruning can help to maintain the shape and size of the savory plant. Additionally, it encourages bushier growth and enhances the flavor of the leaves. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season, but avoid excessive pruning in late summer as this can diminish the plant’s ability to produce flowers and seeds.
6. Harvesting: Savory leaves can be harvested once the plant has reached a height of about 6-8 inches. You can either harvest individual leaves as needed or cut back the entire plant by one-third to encourage new growth. The leaves are best harvested before the plant flowers, as this is when they have the most flavor. To harvest, simply snip off the leaves using sharp scissors or pruners.
Growing savory can be a straightforward process as long as you provide the plant with well-draining soil, ample sunlight, and regular watering. Whether you choose to sow the seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors, following these steps will help ensure a successful harvest of this aromatic herb. Enjoy experimenting with savory in your cooking and savor the flavor it brings to your garden!
