Organic 'Sweet' Marjoram

Organic sweet marjoram ( Origanum majorana ) from the Gaia seed company, a precious aromatic and medicinal herb

Sweet marjoram is a perennial plant grown as an annual in cold climates. It is distinguished by its aromatic, oval, slightly downy gray-green leaves , which give off a warm, sweet, and slightly peppery scent. Forming a small, compact bush , it can gradually spread to cover a large area , while producing discreet white or pink flowers in summer.

Appreciated in Mediterranean cuisine , it enhances dishes with its milder and more floral flavor than oregano . It is also a recognized medicinal plant , traditionally used for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and digestive properties .

Did you know?

Marjoram was a highly prized herb in ancient times , particularly in Egypt and Greece, where it was considered a symbol of love and happiness . It was commonly used in herbal medicine to relieve digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and muscle pain .

It is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals , making it a beneficial herb for health and well-being .

Spread: Bushy habit and progressive growth
Plant height: 30 to 50 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 200 seeds
Companion plants: Celery, corn, eggplant, onion, peas, potato, radish, squash, beans, cabbage, broccoli, thyme, oregano, pepper, pumpkin
Enemy plants: Parsley

Cultivation method

Sweet marjoram likes well-drained, light soils rich in organic matter . It prefers exposure to full sun or partial shade and requires little watering.

• Indoor sowing recommended , 6 to 10 weeks before the last frost .
• Lightly cover the seeds with fine soil, as they need light to germinate well.
• Do not sow directly in open ground , as germination is slower and more capricious.
• Plant spacing : 30 cm between each plant and 45 cm between rows.
• Light watering , only when the soil is dry.
• Avoid excess humidity , which can cause fungal diseases.

Harvesting and conservation

• Harvest the leaves before flowering , when they are most fragrant.
• Do not cut more than a third of the foliage at a time, so as not to weaken the plant.
• Drying : Hang the stems upside down in a dry, ventilated place, then detach the leaves once they are completely dry.
• Storage : dried leaves can be stored for several months in an airtight container away from light.

Ideas for use in cooking and herbal medicine

• Add it to sauces, soups and stews , where it develops all its flavor.
• Add it to marinades to flavor grilled meats, fish and vegetables.
• Prepare a digestive infusion : 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram for 250 ml of hot water, let infuse for 10 minutes. Helps to soothe digestive disorders and stress .
• Use it as an essential oil , diluted in a vegetable oil, for a relaxing and warming massage against muscular tension.

With its refined aromas, medicinal benefits and ease of cultivation , sweet marjoram is an essential herb for gardeners and lovers of healthy and aromatic cuisine !