I'm new at growing herbs and am unsure about how much and when to remove dead growth in the spring from thyme and oregano. I live in Vermont. Thanks.
Removing Dead Growth from Thyme and Oregano
I have trouble getting thyme through most winters at my place in N. Georgia (mountain elevation) but oregano is more hardy. If the thyme does survive, cutting plants back without evidence of new growth kills them. So now I bury the woody stems in spring and leave as much new growth exposed as possible. I cut back some oregano stems and bury others to keep plants vigorous.
Thanks, MaypopLaurel, for your suggestions.
I am in Ithaca NY. I prune when the new growth starts to show on my thyme plants in the spring, so I can clearly see what is actually dead. Oregano can be pruned back to about 3 inches in the fall any time before the leaves are hit with frost, and the tops composted- or you can harvest in September, and give away what you won't use. Oregano is very forgiving. I often dry it to give as gifts at Christmas or other holidays. You can also do this with marjoram and other herbs. If you are having trouble with any of these making it through the winter, plant in a raised bed and mulch heavily with wood chips -Don't use pine or black walnut unless they have been aged.
Quote from CezanneZadsizai :
Quote from MabelKitty :I'm new at growing herbs and am unsure about how much and when to remove dead growth in the spring from thyme and oregano. I live in Vermont. Thanks.
For thyme and oregano, it's best to remove any dead or damaged growth in the spring as soon as you see it. This will help the plants focus their energy on producing new growth rather than trying to repair damaged parts. When pruning, you should aim to remove no more than a third of the plant's growth at one time. As for how much to remove, it really depends on the specific plant and how much dead growth it has. You can use pruning shears or scissors to snip off the dead parts, being careful not to damage any healthy growth. Additionally, be sure to regularly water and fertilize your plants to promote healthy growth. Good luck with your herb garden!
Agree with you, I think this is the most effective way
ahvccenter
Nov 15, 2023
Oregano will return regardless of whether it disregarded for quite a while. However long the plant is as yet alive: a few compost, managing and water will get the job done. Oregano is lasting so it will keep on developing many years. Try not to be tricked assuming it begins to color off because of disregard