Beginner Gardening: Ornamental oregano Hopley's problem..., 1 by rondita67

rondita67 wrote:
Hi all. I've been searching all over the net looking for some insight into my recent problem with this oregano to no avail, so I am hoping someone here has some insight.

Last year it grew perfectly with beautiful flowers. This year, it started strong but soon the tips of the new leaves and perhaps the flower buds (I can't quite tell) as well are turning brown; these tips crumble at the touch. It is in well-drained soil and gets full sun; I water it when dry. The only known pest problems I've found searching online are aphids and spider mites. I do have an aphid problem in the garden, but have not seen any on this oregano despite close and repeated inspection. I've seen a random spider mite in the garden as well but cannot see them on the oregano. Perhaps I need to use a magnifying glass?

Has anyone had the same problem or have any insight about what this could indicate? Thanks in advance and happy gardening!