Growing Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis)

Savory flowers isolated on white background
Savory. Copyright: scis65 / 123RF Stock Photo

Summer Savoury or Savory (Satureja hortensis) is a hardy annual which has a strong and spicy flavour. It is a herb which is used either fresh or dried and is excellent with any summer vegetables, especially beans and peas.

Sowing

Seed is sown in March to late April, ideally under cover but outside as the season progresses. The plants grow to 30cm (12in) high.  

Harvest as soon as the plant is a reasonable size. To create a more bushy habit, nip out the leading tip so that sideshoots grow. Regular picking delays flowering but by late summer, small, white-pink flowers develop.

In August to September, place plants in a light, airy place for drying and use in the winter months such as stews and casseroles.

The related perennial herb is Winter Savory (Satureja montana) which has a more bitter flavour. It is added to fish and meat dishes and is often planted as a companion for various beans.

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1 Comment

  1. I think this is really underrated for taste. You can buy the seeds anywhere but it is super in soups and stews and actually easy to grow which great when you can kill a cactus like I do just by looking at it. Lovely taste.

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