Marjoram, Sweet - Origanum marjorana
1000 Seeds
Sow March - May
Half hardy perennial.
Height and spread 30cm (12in).
Prefers a well-drained, rich soil on a sunny site.
Sow indoors in trays or pots at 20°C using a soil-less compost. Cover with fine soil. Prick out when large enough to handle and harden off before planting out in May.
Sow outdoors and cover with a very, very fine dusting of soil and water well. Germination of the tiny seed tends to be erratic. Prefers any good, alkaline, well drained, dry soil, in full sun. It hates wet winters and poor air circulation and likes a temperature of 22°C during the day and 15°F at night-time.  Germination takes seven to 10 days.  Sweet marjoram is frost-tender. Bring it indoors if frost threatens.
When seedlings are large enough to handle, plant into pots.  Once harden off plant out.
Marjoram is similar to Oregano, but it has a finer texture. This half hardy perennial has a dense, shallow root system and is usually grown as an annual. The square, branched stem has grey hairs. The tiny white, pink and red flowers are knotlike and shaped before blooming in spherical clusters on spikes. The pale green leaves have soft grey down; they are opposite and oval. The seed is a tiny light brown nutlet. Grow near beets, onions and beans to repel insects.