The savory plant, also known as Satureja, is a tasty herb that has been a favorite in kitchens for centuries. There are two main types: summer savory (Satureja hortensis) and winter savory (Satureja Montana).
Whether you’re planting summer or winter savory, both varieties enjoy plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and minimal watering. It’s a perfect choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds flavor to their meals. Savory’s compact size makes it ideal for small spaces, and it can easily be grown in pots or directly in garden beds. With just a little attention, you’ll have a healthy, aromatic herb to enjoy all season long.
Popular Savory Varieties:
- Summer Savory – More delicate, often used in lighter dishes.
- Winter Savory – Stronger, with a bolder flavor, ideal for heartier meals.
Care
- Water: Savory plants prefer well-drained soil and just the right amount of water. Make sure the soil only dries out a bit between waterings, don’t let it get too dry for long. Like many herbs, overwatering can cause problems like root rot.
- Light: Savory loves sunlight. Try to plant it in a spot where it will get at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. It can also handle partial shade, but it grows best in full sun.
- Soil: Savory grows well in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. Adding some compost to the soil before planting can help improve its quality and drainage, giving your savory a good start.
- Temperature and Humidity: Summer savory thrives in warm weather, ideally between 18-29°C, while winter savory prefers temps between 18-20°C.
Planting & Growing
Savory can be grown from seeds or cuttings. If planting from seeds, sow them about 1/4 inch deep, and space them around 10-12 inches apart. Savory matures in about 60-70 days, but make sure to plant after any danger of frost has passed, especially with summer savory. For more info, check out our companion planting article about Savory!
Pruning
Pruning your savory plants will encourage more growth and help the plant stay healthy. Regularly pinch back the tops of the stems to promote bushier growth. Also, remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking fresh and strong.
Common Pests
Frequently asked questions
What is the best soil for savory?
Savory grows best in well-drained soil mixed with compost or manure. Loosen the soil and remove weeds before planting.
Does summer savory like full sun?
Summer savory needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow well.
How much water does savory need?
Water moderately until savory is about 6 inches tall, then let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Is savory hard to grow?
No, savory is easy to grow and doesn’t need much care. It can thrive in pots, gardens, or balconies with little effort.