Planting and Growing Guide for Winter Savory (Satureja montana)
Description
There are two types of Savory: Winter savory (Satureja montana), is a perennial and has a stronger flavor. Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis), is an annual and has a more delicate flavor. Winter Savory is a small bush, growing to 30 cm (12 inches) high, with dark green leaves, woody stems, and pink or white flowers. The leaves are pungent and have a spicy flavor. Winter Savory prefers a well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It is usually grown as an annual in colder areas because it is frost tender. You can cut off the branches before the first frost and dry the leaves for later use.
The flavor of Winter Savory is similar to thyme, but with a stronger and more spicy and peppery taste. Winter Savory can be used in salads and as a garnish. It is widely used to season stews, chicken dishes, sauces, flans and pie fillings. It pairs well with poultry. It is commonly added to flavor peas, beans cabbage or lentils. It has a slightly spicy flavour.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Winter Savory grows best from cuttings, but can be grown from seed if care is taken. Sow seed directly into the garden, or in seed trays at a depth of 5 mm (1/4 inch) after the last frost. Lightly cover the seed with soil. Seedlings may take from 14-21 days to emerge. Winter Savory can also be grown in pots.
Space between plants: Thin the seedlings to a spacing of 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) between plants.
Harvest Time: Harvest in 6-10 weeks. Allow plants to reach 15 cm (6 inches) high before starting to harvest the shoots, leaves and branched. Harvest before flowering for peak flavor.
Hints:
- Grows best in full sun
- Winter savory is frost tolerant and will survive all but the harshest winter if the plants are covered with mulch.
- Winter Savory requires a friable, deep soil, that is rich in organic matter. The soil needs to be loose with lots of organic matter,such as well-rotted animal manures and composts into the soil before planting.
- Feed regularly and add compost around the plants as they grow as a mulch and source of nutrients.
- Do not over-water or over-fertilise Winter Savory or your plants will bolt and become elongated with fewer leaves to harvest.
- Winter Savory does best in well-drained, sandy, or light loamy soil with a slightly acid pH (6.2-6.8).
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!