Summer Savory: The Versatile Herb to grow in your garden

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) is one of the most well-known members of the savory genus. Although it is an annual, it shares similar uses and flavor profiles with the perennial winter savory. However, summer savory is more commonly used due to its milder taste, while winter savory has a slightly more bitter taste.

Summer savory is native to Asia and Southeastern Europe. Travelers introduced it to North America and various other parts of Europe. This herb is also uncertainly found in the regions of Turkey and the South Caucasus.

History of Summer Savory

 Bogdan assumed (based on copyright claims)., Satureja hortensis bgiu, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Latin name Satureja hortensis originates from Pliny, a Roman writer.  It is believed to derive from the word “satyr.” According to legends, this herb was associated with the mythical creature, leading to the name Satureja.

Summer savory was a popular herb for cooking in ancient Rome. People used it to add flavor to their food. Later, black pepper became more popular, and people started using it instead.

During the reign of Julius Caesar, the Romans brought summer savory to England, where it was used for both medicinal purposes and culinary applications.

Medicinal Uses

Summer savory has a long history of medicinal use, with the Romans using it as a general tonic and for its antiseptic properties. It was believed to aid digestion, ease flatulence, help with diarrhea, stimulate appetite, and provide pain relief after insect bites or stings.

Culinary Uses

The Romans extensively used summer savory in their kinds of vinegar and sauces. They also used it as one of their main condiments. In England, people enjoyed adding it to stuffings, vegetables, poultry, and even sausages. Its peppery flavor made it a popular addition to relatively mild foods without overpowering them.

The English name ‘summer savory’ comes from the Saxons, who thought it had a strong, savory taste. In the 17th century, the English botanist Nicolas Culpeper believed that summer savory could help with digestion. This led to its increased use in medicine.

Summer savory was originally found growing wild. It wasn’t until the 19th century that people started cultivating it. Today, it is grown in many places, including France, Germany, Spain, England, and parts of North America and Canada. When you buy summer savory for cooking, you usually get dried leaves and flowers

How to grow Summer Savory

Karelj, Satureja hortensis Prague 2011 1, CC BY-SA 3.0

Sun Light

Summer savory likes sunshine! Aim for 6-8 hours a day of direct sunlight for best results. Too little sun can make the plant weak and leggy, while too much might scorch the leaves.

Don’t worry if your garden isn’t super sunny. Partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day, can work for summer savory. Keep in mind that sunlight patterns shift with the seasons, so it’s important to plant your seeds in a way that ensures they receive enough light throughout the year.

Soil

Summer savory is happiest in a soil environment that is well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal pH range for optimal growth of these herbs is between 6.0 and 7.5. This ensures that the plant can efficiently absorb the nutrients it needs from the soil while preventing diseases to some extent.

Temperature

Summer savory flourishes in a temperate climate, with ideal temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). This temperature range promotes optimal growth and enhances the herb’s flavor profile. Straying outside of these conditions can lead to a lackluster herb that doesn’t deliver the desired impact in culinary dishes.

During scorching heat waves, it’s crucial to protect summer savory from excessive heat. Providing shade and increasing watering frequency are essential strategies to maintain optimal growing conditions. Shade cloths can be used to shield the plants from direct sunlight, while regular watering helps prevent wilting and stress.

Like humans, summer savory dislikes the extreme cold. Leaf discoloration and wilting are signs of cold stress. Cold temperatures can diminish the herb’s aroma and overall health. To protect your summer savory during the colder months, consider using cloches or a greenhouse to create a warm, sheltered environment.

Propagation of Summer Savory

Karelj, Satureja hortensis Prague 2011 3, CC BY-SA 3.0

You can propagate these herbs from seeds, cuttings, and divisions.

Seed Propagation

Savory is easy to grow from seeds, which you can gather from your summer savory plants at the end of the season. Simply pull up the old plant, shake the seeds into a container, and let them dry in the sunlight.

You can either sow the seeds right away or store them in a cool, dry place for up to a year. Alternatively, you can also buy seeds from various online stores and reputed vendors

Choose seeds that are plump, uniform, and free of blemishes. Freshness is crucial; avoid using stale seeds.

Prepare a well-draining soil mixture by combining potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. If you intend to grow in containers, ensure your pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Sow the seeds lightly on the soil surface and mist them gently to keep the soil moist (not soggy).

Germination typically takes 14-21 days, and harvest follows in 60-70 days. However, the timeline may vary based on environmental conditions. Be patient till then.

After the seedlings emerge, gradually acclimate them to the outdoors by starting with partial shade and moving them to sunnier locations little by little over time.

Note: Summer savory can also self-seed, so you may not need to start seeds every year. If you allow the plants to flower and set seed, they will often reseed themselves the following spring.

Cutting Propagation

Summer savory can be propagated through cuttings in both spring and summer. However, spring is generally considered the optimal time for this. Here’s why:

Warmer temperatures: Spring offers generally warmer temperatures, which are ideal for the cuttings to root and develop.

Longer days: Longer days in spring provide more sunlight for photosynthesis, aiding in the growth of the cuttings.

Reduced pest and disease pressure: Spring typically has lower levels of pests and diseases compared to summer, reducing the risk of infections in the cuttings.

While summer cuttings can be successful under favorable conditions, spring cuttings often have a higher success rate due to the aforementioned factors.

Focus on vigorous stems with healthy, lush leaves—free of pests and diseases. Make a sharp, clean cut just below a node to start.

When it comes to rooting, the soil vs. water debate is like the gardener’s version of “the chicken or the egg.” If you’re a visual learner, water lets you watch the roots develop, but for long-term success, soil offers stability. Whichever method you choose, rooting hormone can give your cuttings a boost—just dip them in and tap off the excess for faster root growth.

You can simply plant the cuttings in your garden or in containers filled with high-quality potting mix.

These cuttings typically take 2-3 weeks to develop roots. Provide well-draining soil, adequate moisture, and good airflow to support healthy root growth.

Division Propagation

You can divide these herbs ideally in spring or fall. These seasons provide the perfect balance of mild temperatures and active plant growth. In spring, plants prepare for the year ahead, while fall division gives them a head start for the next spring. Always ensure the plant is healthy before you begin.

First, water your plants. This loosens both the roots and soil. Then, gently pull the plants out of the soil surface. Handle carefully so that the roots remain intact.

Use a sharp, clean tool to divide the plant, aiming for minimal trauma. Just like making a copy of your favorite herb, each new piece should have its own shoots and roots

Once you have your divisions, replant each one in fresh, well-draining soil. Water them in, but avoid overwatering. A bit of mulch is like a warm blanket for your plants, keeping them moist. Just be patient and let them settle in.

Summer savory divisions typically take about 2 to 3 weeks to establish themselves. Providing a bit of shade initially can also help them adjust and grow stronger.

How to Care for Summer Savory

Water

Both summer and winter savory are drought-tolerant after they’ve settled in. Keep summer savory’s soil consistently moist during the summer with just enough water. Winter savory likes occasional deep watering rather than frequent light watering. If it doesn’t rain, water once or twice a week and let the soil dry out between waterings.

Pruning

Summer savory is an annual, so it doesn’t need pruning. However, regular harvesting will promote new growth. Remove any dead, dry, or yellow leaves as they appear. When summer savory season ends (in late fall), cut the plant down to just above the ground using scissors or pruning shears.

Fertilizing

Soil testing is essential for fertilizing your summer savory effectively. By analyzing your soil’s composition, you can determine the exact nutrients your plants need. Test your soil in the spring or fall for best results, and repeat the test every few years to stay informed.

Use your soil test results to adjust your fertilization strategy. If your Summer Savory isn’t growing well or has yellowing leaves, it might need more nutrients. However, be cautious about over-fertilizing, as this can lead to various other problems. Observe your Summer Savory closely and fertilize accordingly.

Summer Savory needs a balanced diet to thrive. Here are the essential nutrients:

Nitrogen (N): Promotes healthy, green growth and strong leaves.

Phosphorus (P): Supports robust root development and vibrant blooms.

Potassium (K): Maintains overall plant health and improves disease resistance.

Organic vs. Synthetic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are like slow-release nutrients, gradually improving soil health and providing a steady supply for your plants. They’re a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners and less likely to cause over-fertilization.

Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, provide a quick burst of nutrients to promote rapid growth and blooming. However, they can be more prone to over-fertilization and should be used carefully.

Organic Fertilizers

Gradual nutrient release

Improves soil structure

Environmentally friendly and sustainable

Synthetic Fertilizers

Provides a quick nutrient supply

Must be applied carefully to prevent plant damage

Overuse may negatively affect long-term soil health

Scheduling the Fertilizer Feed

Initial Fertilization

To provide Summer Savory with a strong foundation, incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting. Once the first leaves appear, a light application of fertilizer will help the plants get off to a healthy start.

Regular Feeding

As summer savory reaches its peak, maintaining consistency is crucial. Implement a monthly fertilization schedule during the growing season to ensure a steady supply of nutrients, promoting lush foliage and vibrant blooms. However, if your savory appears lackluster, it may be time to reevaluate the feeding frequency.

Late season Feeding

As summer’s heat fades, it’s important to taper off fertilization. Start reducing the amount about eight weeks before the first fall frost. This gradual decrease allows Summer Savory to transition into dormancy, protecting next year’s growth.

Harvesting and Storing Summer Savory

Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova, Satureja montana Cząber górski flower, CC BY 3.0

Unlike winter savory, summer savory is an annual that grows during warm months, flowers, and then produces seeds. Start harvesting summer savory when the plants reach 6 inches (15 cm) tall. You can harvest continually throughout the growing season as you need.

To harvest summer savory, cut the leaves and shoots from mature stalks, leaving most of the stalk behind to encourage continued growth. Avoid cutting the stalks all the way down to the base. Regularly harvesting summer savory encourages growth, but be cautious not to cut the plants too severely, as this can harm them.

To store fresh savory leaves, wrap them in damp paper towels or place them in a zip-lock bag and keep the arrangement in the refrigerator for up to a week. For drying, use a dehydrator or lay the leaves flat on a tray in a cool, dry area for a few weeks. Once fully dried, crumble the leaves and store them in an airtight container for up to a year.

Pests and Diseases Affecting Summer Savory Plants

Pests

Summer savory, like many plants, is vulnerable to pests that can harm its growth and health. Early detection of these pests is essential for effective treatment and prevention of damage.

Aphids

Identification: Aphids are pear-shaped, tiny insects. They can be in various colors including yellow, green, or black. They often gather on the undersides of leaves and feed on plant sap.

Treatment: To control aphids on your plant, spray them with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate aphids without harming beneficial insects.

Spider mites

Identification: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can be hard to see without a magnifying glass. They create fine webs on plant leaves and feed on plant juices, causing yellow spots and discoloration.

Treatment: To control spider mites on your plant, spray the plant with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol. Neem oil is also a natural remedy for eliminating spider mites and preventing future infestations.

Thrips

Identification: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed by piercing plant cells and sucking out their contents. They are often yellow, black, or brown and can cause leaves to turn silvery or bronze.

Treatment: To control thrips on your summer savory, introduce predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings to your garden. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be effective in managing thrips infestations.

Summer savory is also vulnerable to other common pests such as whiteflies, caterpillars, slugs, and snails. Prompt treatment is crucial to effectively deter these pests and protect the plants.

Diseases

Summer savory plants can be affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot, which can weaken the plants and stunt their growth.

Prevention: To prevent fungal diseases, plant summer savory in well-draining soil and space the plants properly to allow for good air circulation. Avoid watering the plants from overhead, and remove any infected plant parts immediately to prevent the spread of disease.

Quick Reference Guide

Botanical Name	Satureja hortensis
Common Name	Summer savory
Family	Lamiaceae
USDA Hardiness Zones	5 – 9
Plant Type	Herb
Sun Light Exposure	Full Sun
Soil Type and pH	slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 – 7.5)
Mature Height and Spread	height 12-18 inches; spread 6-12 inches
Bloom Time	late spring to early summer
Flower Colours	White. Occasional variations possible
Origin	Asia, Southeastern Europe

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