Growing Marjoram Spice
Marjoram is a long-known type of spicy plant used in cooking, as well as in medicine and some other areas. Its beneficial properties were known in ancient Greece and Rome. In the modern world, marjoram is used as a spice in quite a variety of culinary recipes and as part of various seasonings. One of the ways to get herbs also involves growing them in your backyard or in your own apartment. By itself, marjoram is a perennial plant and requires specific conditions for successful growth.
Growing Marjoram from Seedlings
The most expedient way to grow such a spice as marjoram is from seedlings. Growing marjoram from seeds requires a more pedantic approach, creating additional conditions and spending additional extra time.
Marjoram seeds are very small, one gram contains about five thousand seeds, and they must be introduced into the soil at a shallow depth. Naturally, marjoram seeds should germinate indoors. Moreover, it is necessary to constantly maintain the soil temperature of 20-25°C. As the soil dries, it must be constantly moistened, in some cases covered with a film. If all the necessary conditions are met, the first sprouts of marjoram can be seen in two weeks.
In the case of planting in the soil, special attention must be paid to the placement of marjoram on the site. Marjoram is picky about the ambient temperature, so the sprouts must be positioned in such a way that they are as illuminated as possible, and the soil is warmed by sunlight. The first two weeks the soil must be carefully watered, otherwise the growth of plants will be difficult. Fertilizers that are recommended to be applied to the soil are superphosphate and potassium salt. It is also necessary that the marjoram beds be cleared of weeds.
Care When Growing Marjoram
By itself, marjoram is quite resistant to drought and after a few weeks of development it is unpretentious in care. However, the first time after transplanting marjoram into the ground requires increased attention - only in this case will abundant greenery be provided. In the future, marjoram care is required insignificant, as with other plants. Naturally, it is necessary to loosen the earth and clear weeds. Water marjoram only when a crust forms on the ground. Excessive moisture stagnation in the roots is also not desirable for marjoram. The final stage is the collection of marjoram. Harvesting is expected at the time of the strongest flowering. After cut plants should be dried out of direct sunlight. After drying, marjoram should be stored in hermetically sealed jars.
Use of Grown Marjoram
Despite the whimsical and difficult conditions during cultivation, marjoram can be used for various purposes. The variety of dishes in which marjoram can be used is incalculable. On the other hand, marjoram can become an important part of a home first aid kit. And in some countries, marjoram is grown exclusively as a decoration for household plots.