Planting and Harvest Guide for Summer Savory Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis) is a versatile and flavorful herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It has a subtle peppery flavor and is commonly used in various culinary dishes and herbal remedies. If you’re interested in growing summer savory in your garden, here is a detailed guide to help you successfully plant and harvest this herb during the summer season. 1. Choosing the Right Location: - Summer savory thrives in full sunlight, so choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. - Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Summer savory prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.6 to 7.8. 2. Starting Seeds Indoors: - If you have a short growing season or want to get a head start, you can start summer savory seeds indoors before the last frost. - Fill a seed tray or pots with a good quality seed-starting mix. - Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and lightly cover them with soil. - Keep the seeds moist by misting the soil with water. - Place the tray/pots in a warm location that maintains a temperature around 70F (21C). - Seedlings should emerge within 7-14 days. - Once the seedlings develop at least two sets of true leaves and the threat of frost has passed, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors. 3. Direct Sowing in the Garden: - If you prefer direct sowing, wait until the soil temperature reaches around 60F (15C) and all risks of frost have passed. - Prepare the garden bed by removing any weeds and adding compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. - Sow the summer savory seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 8-10 inches apart. - Cover the seeds with soil and gently firm it down. - Water the seeds thoroughly but avoid overwatering. 4. Watering and Maintenance: - Water the plants deeply, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. - Once the plants establish a strong root system, water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. - Avoid overhead watering, as it can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the plants. - Mulch around the plants to conserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth. 5. Fertilization: - Summer savory generally doesn't require heavy feeding. However, a balanced organic fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth. - Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct application rate. 6. Harvesting: - Summer savory can be harvested once the plants reach about 6-8 inches in height. - Start by picking the leaves individually or cut the stems just above a node. - Avoid stripping off all the leaves from a single plant, as it may weaken the plant’s overall health. - Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and helps maintain the plant's flavor. - The leaves can be used fresh, dried, or frozen for later use. 7. Storing: - To store summer savory, dry the leaves by hanging them in small bunches upside down in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. - Once the leaves are dry and crumbly, remove them from the stems and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. - Dried summer savory can stay flavorful for up to a year.