How to Grow Summer Savory
Satureja hortensis
Summer savory is a compact annual herb with a peppery flavour similar to thyme, traditionally paired with broad beans. Sow direct after the last frost in full sun and well-drained soil — it actually prefers poor to moderate soil, as rich conditions dilute the essential oils and flavour. Water sparingly once established and pick leaves regularly before flowering for the best flavour. It works well in containers and herb borders alongside beans, onions, and garlic.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 10°C and soil has warmed to at least 15°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Rarely needed. Thrives in poor to moderate soil.
- Peppery flavour similar to thyme. Winter savory (perennial) is a hardier alternative.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 15°C+
- Germination temperature
- 18–22°C
Pet Safety
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 40 cm |
| Mature spread | 25 cm |
Compact annual herb. Direct sow or transplant after last frost.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of small green or black insects on shoot tips; sticky honeydew; distorted young growth
- Blast off with a jet of water
- Spray with insecticidal soap
- Encourage ladybirds and hoverflies as natural predators
- Spray with a contact insecticide containing pyrethrins if infestations are severe
Pest Slugs and Snails
Identification: Seedlings eaten at ground level; ragged holes in young leaves; slime trails on soil
- Apply organic slug pellets (ferric phosphate based) around seedlings
- Hand-pick at dusk; use beer traps
- Grow in containers or raised beds for better drainage and fewer slugs
- Apply ferric phosphate slug pellets around vulnerable seedlings
Disease Root Rot
Symptoms: Wilting despite adequate water; yellowing lower leaves; dark, mushy roots; plant collapses at the base
Treatment: Remove and destroy affected plants; improve drainage; reduce watering
Prevention: Plant in well-drained soil; avoid overwatering; add grit to heavy soils; grow in containers if drainage is poor
Disease Powdery Mildew Erysiphe spp.
Symptoms: White, powdery coating on leaves; affected leaves yellow and drop; reduced vigour and flavour
Treatment: Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; spray with potassium bicarbonate solution
Prevention: Space plants for good airflow; water at the base; avoid overhead watering; avoid overcrowding
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 15°C |
| Germination temperature | 18–22°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Summer Savory?
- Plant Summer Savory 20cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Summer Savory?
- Summer Savory is ready to harvest approximately 30 days after transplanting.
- Is Summer Savory frost hardy?
- Summer Savory is classified as Tender.
