Growing Savory: A Comprehensive Guide

Savory is a versatile and aromatic herb that adds immense flavor to various dishes. With its peppery, earthy taste, this herb can amplify soups, roasts, lentils and more. Growing your own savory provides a constant supply of fresh leaves to elevate home cooking.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about successfully cultivating savory – from choosing varieties, preparing soil, planting, care, troubleshooting, culinary uses, and more. Let’s explore the wonderful world of growing savory!

Why Grow Savory

Savory offers many benefits that make it a worthwhile herb for your garden:

• Adds unique, peppery flavor to dishes
• Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
• Easy to grow and maintain
• Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees
• Provides constant supply of fresh leaves

With savory’s culinary value and medicinal benefits, growing this herb can be a rewarding experience for gardeners. Here are some key reasons savory deserves a spot in your garden:

• Enhances flavor – Savory has a bold, peppery taste that brings depth of flavor to soups, stews, meats, beans, and more. Its unique aroma and taste make it a versatile culinary herb.
• Nutritional value – Savory contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It provides dietary benefits when added to recipes.
• Pollinator-friendly – The flowers of savory attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Growing savory supports pollinators, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem.
• Ornamental appeal – Varieties like creeping savory lend visual interest and serve as an attractive, aromatic ground cover with lavender-colored flowers.
• Medicinal uses – Savory has been used historically for medicinal purposes, including as a digestive aid, appetite stimulant, antiseptic, and to treat bee stings.
• Culinary versatility – With its robust flavor, savory can enhance meats, beans, vegetables, eggs, cheese, and more. It’s a versatile herb used globally in cuisine.
• Easy to grow – Savory is relatively low-maintenance and suitable for gardeners of all levels. Once established, it requires minimal care and handling.
• Great for containers – Dwarf savory varieties can thrive in containers, making it easy to grow on a balcony or patio. Container-grown savory can be easily transported indoors as needed.

Selecting the Best Variety

Several common varieties of savory exist, each with their own distinct flavor profile and uses:

Summer Savory

• Well-suited for fresh use with its mild, peppery taste.

Winter Savory

• More pungent and robust flavor, ideal for long cooking.

Creeping Savory

• Low-growing variety perfect as flavorful ground cover.

German Winter Savory

• Very hardy winter variety with excellent cold tolerance.

Greek Savory

• Boasts an intense flavor, often used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Bohn Savory

• Produces thick, fleshy leaves with a particularly strong aroma.

Pepper Savory

• Features beautiful variegated leaves and mild peppery-citrus notes.

Consider the flavor strength, growth habit, and your cooking needs when choosing a variety. Summer savory works well for lighter dishes while winter savory shines in heartier meals.

You’ll also want to factor in growing conditions, disease resistance, and seed availability based on your climate. Selecting the most suitable variety will ensure successful cultivation and flavorful harvests.

Key Factors in Selecting Savory Variety

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing which savory variety to grow:

• Climate and growing conditions – Consider your region’s average temperatures, rainfall, and sunlight levels. Some varieties handle heat, drought, or cold better than others.
• Plant size and habit – Compact, low-growing varieties work well for containers. Upright, bushy types are ideal for traditional garden beds.
• Flavor profile – The milder summer savory suits lighter dishes. Bold winter savory stands up to hearty stews and meats.
• Pest and disease resistance – Look for varieties bred for resistance to common problems like mildew. This reduces the need for interventions.
• Culinary uses – If you’ll use it fresh, pick summer savory. For long-cooked meals, choose a hardy winter variety.
• Seed availability – Ensure seeds or starter plants for your variety are available from reputable sellers before deciding.
• Days to harvest – Fast-growing summer savory reaches harvest in 60 days. Slower winter types take up to 75 days to mature.

Prepping the Planting Site

Savory thrives in well-draining, fertile soil. Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, amending with compost or manure as needed. Savory prefers a sunny spot, needing at least 6 hours of direct light daily.

Here are the ideal soil conditions for savory:

• Well-draining with a pH of 6.0-7.0
• Consistent moisture but not waterlogged
• Enriched with organic matter
• Full sun exposure

Proper soil preparation gives savory’s root system the best environment to flourish.

Soil Requirements for Optimal Growth

To grow successfully, savory needs:

• Soil type – Savory grows best in slightly sandy, well-draining soil or loam. Heavier clay soils should be amended with compost to improve drainage.
• Sunlight – At least 6-8 hours of full sunlight daily is vital. Morning sun is preferable to encourage robust growth.
• pH range – Savory does best in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with an ideal pH of 6.0-7.0.
• Moisture – Keep soil consistently moist but not soaked. Savory is susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
• Nutrients – Savory needs nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy development. Work compost into soil before planting.
• Drainage – Excellent drainage is a must to prevent waterlogging. Raised beds can improve drainage in heavy soils.

Testing and Amending Garden Soil

Follow these steps for healthy, fertile soil:

• Take samples from several areas and send for lab analysis. This tests pH and nutrient levels.
• Based on results, choose appropriate amendments to correct deficiencies.
• Add organic matter like aged manure, compost, or peat moss to improve texture and nutrient levels.
• Use lime to raise low pH or sulfur to lower high pH according to soil test recommendations.
• Thoroughly mix amendments into the top 6-8 inches of soil before planting.
• Re-test soil every 2-3 years to monitor changes and determine if additional amendments are needed.

Properly preparing and amending your soil gives savory the ideal foundation right from the start.

Planting Savory for Success

You can start savory from seeds or transplants. Seeds allow you to cultivate from scratch but take longer to mature. Transplants offer faster harvests, especially in short growing seasons.

Seeds vs. Transplants

Both methods have their pros and cons:

Seeds

• Greater variety of cultivars
• Less expensive
• Allow control over growing conditions
• More rewarding to grow from seed
• Takes longer to reach maturity (2-3 months)

Transplants

• Faster harvests, especially in short seasons
• labour and time savings by skipping germination stage
• Higher upfront cost
• Limited selection
• Risk of transplant shock

When planting, choose a sunny location and sow seeds 1⁄4 inch deep, 6-12 inches apart. Water after planting and use mulch to retain moisture while suppressing weeds. Thin overcrowded seedlings and transplant extras.

Savory may benefit from trellising or staking for support, depending on variety. Always monitor for pests or diseases. Following sound planting techniques will ensure vigorous, healthy plants.

Tips for Successfully Planting Savory

Follow these tips for the best results:

• Soil prep – Work compost or aged manure into soil 2-3 weeks before planting. This boosts nutrients.
• Ideal time – Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Move outdoors after hardening off.
• Sunny spot – Ensure at least 8 hours of sunlight daily. Morning sun is best.
• Spacing – Sow seeds 6-12 inches apart depending on variety size. Give transplants 12-18 inch spacing.
• Planting depth – Sow seeds 1⁄4 inch deep. Set transplants at same depth they were originally growing.
• Watering – Keep soil moist, not soaked. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
• Thinning – For vigorous growth, thin overcrowded seedlings to proper spacing.
• Mulching – Mulch plants with compost or straw to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
• Support – Stake or trellis tall, floppy varieties to prevent broken stems.

Caring for Your Savory

Proper care is vital for thriving savory plants. Employ these best practices:

• Water deeply 1-2 times per week, avoiding waterlogged soil
• Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during growing season
• Prune dead branches and harvest leaves before flowering
• Control weeds and pests
• Use drip irrigation and organic mulch
• Monitor for diseases and treat organically if needed

Adequate water, nutrients, and pruning will keep your savory healthy and productive. Consistent care makes all the difference in growing abundant savory.

Watering Needs of Savory

• Savory requires regular watering for best growth and flavor. Soil should be kept consistently moist but not saturated.
• Water deeply, at soil level, 1-2 times per week. Frequency depends on soil type and weather conditions.
• Avoid overhead watering to minimize chances of foliar diseases. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
• Reduce watering frequency as plants mature, but do not allow soil to dry out completely.
• Check soil moisture by digging 1-2 inches deep. Water when top few inches become dry.
• Increase watering during flowering and seed set to support plant processes.
• Hot and windy conditions cause faster moisture loss, so monitor soil diligently during these times.

Fertilizing Savory for Optimal Health

• Use organic fertilizer at planting time to support initial establishment.
• Apply again when plants are 4-6 inches tall and repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Fish emulsion, compost tea, worm castings, or organic all-purpose mixes work well. Always follow label rates.
• Place granular or powdered fertilizer around the base of plants, not directly on leaves. Water in thoroughly after applying.
• Nutrient needs taper off as plants enter dormancy in fall. Avoid late season feeding.
• Overfertilization can cause leggy, weak growth. Always use a balanced, complete organic fertilizer.

Pruning and Harvesting Savory

• Prune frequently by pinching off flower buds to encourage leafy growth.
• Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead stems promptly to maintain plant health.
• Cut back plants by 1/3 mid-season to stimulate bushy new growth. This maximizes leaf production.
• Harvest leaves when plants reach 6 inches tall. Snip individual leaves or cut whole stems.
• For best flavor, harvest before flowers emerge. Leaves become more bitter after flowering.
• To encourage regrowth, leave 2-3 inches of stem intact when harvesting.
• Use pruners or garden shears for clean cuts. Avoid tearing leaves, which can invite pests and diseases.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew can affect savory. Inspect plants routinely and remove affected parts immediately. Introduce beneficial insects to control pests naturally.

Improve drainage, space plants properly, and avoid overwatering to prevent diseases. Seek targeted organic treatments if problems persist.

Environmental factors like extreme temperatures can also impact growth. Use season extenders to protect plants as needed. With vigilant monitoring and quick action, you can keep problems to a minimum.

Dealing With Pests

Common savory pests and solutions:

• Aphids – Knock off with a strong spray of water. Introduce ladybugs or lacewings.
• Spider mites – Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays. Improve air circulation.
• Cutworms – Ring young plants with cardboard collars pushed 1 inch into soil.
• Caterpillars – Remove by hand. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis as needed.
• Thrips – Use sticky yellow traps and predatory nematodes.
• Slugs & snails – Trap in shallow containers of beer. Hand pick at night.

Preventing and Treating Diseases

Frequent problems and how to control them:

• Powdery mildew – Improve air flow. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate sprays.
• Leaf spot – Avoid overhead watering and prune affected foliage. Use copper fungicide if severe.
• Root rot – Allow soil to dry between waterings. Replace diseased plants.
• Wilt diseases – Disinfect tools after use. Solarize soil before planting. Grow wilt-resistant varieties.
• Rust – Space plants properly. Remove and destroy affected leaves. Apply sulfur sprays.

Environmental and Growing Issues

• Ensure adequate drainage and amend dense, poor draining soils before planting.
• Add windbreaks like trellises if plants are exposed to strong winds and damage.
• Install temporary shade structures if temperatures exceed 90°F for extended periods.
• Apply organic winter mulch in cold regions after the ground freezes to insulate plants.
• Rotate savory’s location in the garden every 2-3 years to prevent disease and nutrient deficiencies.
• Group plants closely together to conserve moisture in excessively dry climates.

Maximizing Your Savory Harvest

Savory’s peppery flavor enhances many dishes. Popular uses include quiches, roasted chicken, casseroles, risotto, and galettes. Store dried leaves whole or ground in airtight containers. Freeze fresh leaves up to 6 months.

When harvesting, cut stems above soil level, bundling them to hang dry. Separate dried leaves and store properly for optimal flavor and freshness all season long.

Using Savory in Your Cooking

Here are some of the many ways to use savory:

• Add fresh or dried leaves to soups, stews, beans, gravies, and stuffings.
• Combine with thyme, rosemary, and sage to create a hearty herbes de Provence mixture.
• Sprinkle on meat rubs for lamb, beef, chicken, goose, and game.
• Toss chopped leaves into salad dressings, dips, and marinades.
• Mix with bread crumbs when coating fish, veal, or chicken before baking.
• Add to baked goods like breads, biscuits, scones, and muffins.
• Infuse vinegars, oils, butter, and cheese spreads with fresh savory.
• Use anywhere you would use thyme or oregano for a peppery twist.

Storing and Preserving Your Savory Harvest

• Dry leaves completely bundled and hanging upside down in a warm, dark area.
• For long term storage, freeze leaves on a cookie sheet before transferring to airtight containers.
• Layer fresh leaves between damp paper towels in a closed container for short term refrigeration.
• Infuse savory leaves and stems in warmed olive oil. Strained, cooled oil keeps up to 2 months refrigerated.
• Puree fresh leaves with salt and olive oil. Freeze in ice cube trays for easy use in cooking.
• Chop and mix leaves with salt before dehydrating and storing in airtight containers.
• Make savory-infused vinegar by steeping leaves in warmed white vinegar for 2-3 weeks then straining.

Proper post-harvest handling maintains savory’s flavor and ensures you can enjoy its benefits year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I grow savory indoors?

• Plant in containers filled with well-draining potting mix, spacing 4-6 inches apart.
• Place in south facing windowsill or supplement natural light with grow lights for 12-16 hours daily.
• Maintain temperature between 65-75°F. Avoid drafts from air vents or open doors and windows.
• Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. Proper drainage is key.
• Pinch back growing tips frequently to encourage bushy, compact growth.
• Harvest leaves as needed once plants are 6 inches tall. Start pinching flowers as they appear.

Can savory be propagated via stem cuttings?

Yes, savory can be quite easily propagated via stem cuttings:

• Take 3-4 inch cuttings from the tips of healthy stems in early summer. Remove lower leaves.
• Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
• Plant cuttings a few inches deep in seed starting mix or vermiculite.
• Enclose in a plastic bag or propagator case to maintain humidity.
• Keep out of direct sun and check often for moisture needs.
• Roots should develop in 2-4 weeks. Pot up cuttings once well established.

When is the best time to start savory seeds?

The optimal time to start savory seeds depends on your climate:

• In warm climates with long growing seasons, start seeds directly outdoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost.
• In cooler areas, get a head start by sowing seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to your frost-free date.
• Use grow lights or a south-facing window for indoor seed starting. Provide consistent warmth around 70°F.
• Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days before transplanting them outside after all danger of frost is past.
• Time plantings so that savory reaches its mature size before the peak of summer heat. Avoid late summer plantings.
• Successive sowing every 2-3 weeks extends the harvest window. Keep soil moist for quick germination.

How much savory should I plant?

The amount of savory to plant depends on how much you intend to use fresh and preserve:

• For fresh use, 2-3 plants should provide enough leaves for most home cooks.
• If preserving by drying or freezing, plant 5-6 plants to have enough surplus harvest.
• Since savory produces leaves all season long, 2-3 healthy plants can yield continuous pickings.
• Start conservatively your first year until you gauge your usage and can determine the ideal number of plants for your needs.
• Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for bushy, robust growth and easier harvesting.
• Successive smaller plantings 2-3 weeks apart provide a steady supply rather than one large harvest all at once.

What are the sun and soil requirements for growing savory?

• Full sun is essential, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is ideal.
• Well-draining loamy soil enriched with organic matter provides ideal conditions.
• Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0-7.0.
• Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged through the growing season.
• Adding aged compost or manure before planting helps provides nutrients and improves texture.
• If drainage is poor, plant in raised beds amended with sand or perlite to improve permeability.
• Mulch around plants to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture while suppressing weeds.

What are the culinary and medicinal uses of savory?

Savory is valued both for its culinary and medicinal attributes:

Culinary uses

• Adds depth of flavor to beans, meats, stews, soups, and vegetables
• Pairs well with thyme, basil, oregano, and marjoram
• Commonly used in Mediterranean, German, and French cuisine
• Adds a peppery punch to salads, dressings, marinades, and sauces
• Used to flavor cheeses, baked goods, and egg dishes
• Compliments both savory and sweet flavors

Medicinal uses

• Long used as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant
• Has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties
• Aids respiratory issues when inhaled or brewed as tea
• Applied topically to treat minor cuts, insect bites, joint pain, and fungal infections
• Can be made into antiseptic mouth rinses and gargles

With its versatility in cooking and potential therapeutic benefits, savory is truly a valuable herb for any gardener.