How to Grow Summer Savory: Planting, Spacing, Care & Harvest

Quick answer

Timing in OSU/Illinois: after frost; Cornell notes light-frost tolerance. Illinois: start indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting.

Summer savory at a glance

PlantOklahoma Extension: Savory (Satureja hortensis) — Seed — “After last spring frost.”
SunFull sun; well-drained soil.
SpacingShallow sow; thin for bushy plants.
Days to harvestLeaf harvest as needed
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Planting dates for your ZIP: the ZIP planting planner counts each window from your local frost dates.

Organic pests and diseases: see also organic pest control. Use any product as the label directs.

Summer savory
Summer savory (Satureja hortensis). Photo: Schlaghecken Josef, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized).

Planting timing

Oklahoma Extension: Savory (Satureja hortensis) — Seed — “After last spring frost.” (OK culinary herbs) Illinois: sown directly or indoors then “transplanted after danger of frost is past.” “Allow about 4–6 weeks to produce transplants” (lead time). (Illinois summer savory) Cornell: “Plants will withstand light frost.” (Cornell savory) —

Depth and spacing

Shallow sow; thin for bushy plants.

Sun, soil and water

Full sun; well-drained soil. Classic bean-herb companion culturally.

Care

Pinch tips for bushiness; harvest before heavy flowering for best flavor.

Harvest

Cut leafy stems as needed; dry for winter use.

Pests and diseases

Few serious problems when well-drained.

Related: ZIP planner · all grow guides · organic pest control

Frequently asked questions

When do I sow?

After frost (OSU/IL) or with light-frost notes (Cornell)

Start indoors?

IL 4–6 weeks before transplanting

More grow guides: All grow guides

Sources