Overwintering guide
How to overwinter italian oregano
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills italian oregano in winter
Cutting italian oregano hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More italian oregano care
Overwintering italian oregano — FAQ
Does italian oregano need to come indoors for winter?
Italian Oregano is hardy to roughly USDA zone 6 — winter lows around -23°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. Italian Oregano is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move italian oregano for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water italian oregano in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills italian oregano over winter?
Cutting italian oregano hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.