Savory
Scientific Name
Satureja
Description
Savory is a delightful herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, which includes other well-known herbs like mint and basil. There are two main types of savory: summer savory (Satureja hortensis) and winter savory (Satureja montana). Both variations are native to Europe and are prized for their culinary uses as well as their aromatic qualities.
Summer savory is an annual plant that grows up to 18 inches tall, featuring fleshy, green leaves that are elongated and pointed. It produces small white or pale purple flowers in late summer, attracting pollinators such as bees. This variety is known for its peppery flavor, often compared to a combination of mint and thyme. It enhances a variety of dishes, particularly beans, meats, and vegetable stews.
Winter savory, a perennial herb, has a fuller and more robust flavor than its summer counterpart. It grows around 12 to 18 inches tall and possesses narrow, dark green leaves with a more intense aroma. Winter savory flourishes in slightly drier soils and can be more cold-tolerant than summer savory. Its flavor profile makes it an excellent addition to hearty dishes, roasted meats, and marinades.
Both types of savory are relatively easy to cultivate, preferring full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established, which makes them a low-maintenance option for gardeners. Additionally, savory is often considered beneficial for companion planting, as it can deter pests and attract beneficial insects.
Overall, savory is not only a versatile herb in the kitchen but also a lovely addition to any garden with its attractive foliage and flowers.
Where it Grows
When to Plant
When to Plant Savory
Introduction to Savory
Savory is a delightful herb known for its aromatic leaves and is commonly used in culinary dishes, offering a peppery flavor that enhances various recipes. There are two species of savory: Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) and Winter savory (Satureja montana), each with slightly different planting times and growing conditions.
Understanding Your Climate
The optimal planting time for savory largely depends on your climate zone. Both varieties thrive best in full sun and well-drained soil. Knowing your local frost dates will help determine the best time to plant:
- In regions with mild winters: You can plant Winter savory in the fall or early spring.
- In regions with cold winters: Plan to plant Summer savory in late spring, typically after the last frost date.
Soil Temperature
Savory prefers soil temperatures between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) for optimal germination. You can use a soil thermometer to check that your garden bed is warm enough before planting seeds directly into the ground.
Seed Starting Indoors
If you want to get a head start, consider sowing Summer savory seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This allows the seedlings to gain some size before being transplanted outdoors.
Transplanting Outdoors
When the weather warms up and the danger of frost has passed, hardened-off seedlings can be transplanted outdoors. Make sure the soil is well-draining and amend it with organic matter, if necessary, to promote healthy growth.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
For those in suitable climates, direct sowing Summer savory seeds can be done after the last frost date. Space seeds approximately 12 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Maintenance Considerations
Once planted, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as too much water can lead to root rot. Regularly check for weeds that may compete for nutrients and space. Harvesting the leaves during the growing season encourages bushier growth and keeps your savory plants productive.
Conclusion
Knowing when to plant savory involves understanding your zone, soil temperatures, and frost dates. By aligning these factors with the plant's preferences, you can ensure a successful growing season and enjoy the aromatic leaves of this versatile herb. Happy gardening!
How to Plant
Planting Savory: A Comprehensive Guide
Savory, a delightful herb belonging to the mint family, is prized for its aromatic leaves and culinary uses. It comes in two varieties: annual (Satureja hortensis) and perennial (Satureja montana), both of which thrive in the right conditions.
Site Selection: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Savory prefers a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Soil Preparation: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and fertility. Avoid overly rich soil, as this can lead to excess foliage with less flavor.
Sowing Seeds: For annual savory, sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after the last frost, or start indoors 6-8 weeks prior. Space seeds about 12 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Lightly cover the seeds with soil, as they require light for germination.
Transplanting: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when they reach about 4 inches in height, ensuring they are hardened off beforehand.
Care: Water regularly but do not let the soil become soggy. Once established, savory is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care. Prune plants throughout the growing season to encourage bushiness and prolong harvest.
With these steps, your savory should flourish, adding flavor to your culinary creations.
Watering
When watering a Savory plant, the key strategy is to maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Savory, a drought-tolerant herb, prefers the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Begin by allowing the top inch of soil to dry before watering again, which encourages deep root growth. Use your finger to test soil moisture; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Water deeply but infrequently to promote a healthy root system. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can lead to fungal issues. It’s also beneficial to water in the morning when evaporation rates are lower, helping the plant absorb moisture effectively. Be mindful of environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, which may necessitate adjustments to your watering schedule. This careful approach supports the growth of healthy, flavorful leaves, essential for culinary use.
Pruning
Pruning Savory plants, whether summer or winter varieties, is essential for promoting healthy growth and enhancing flavor. The best strategy involves timing and technique. Prune during late spring to early summer, just after the plants have begun to grow vigorously. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to prevent damage and disease. Focus on removing dead, woody stems and any leggy growth to encourage bushier, more robust plants. Trim back about one-third of the plant’s height to stimulate new growth while maintaining enough foliage for photosynthesis. It's also beneficial to harvest leaves regularly; this not only prevents flowering—which can reduce flavor—but also encourages further growth. Always ensure to leave enough foliage to support the plant’s health. With proper pruning, Savory plants will thrive, producing fragrant leaves that enhance culinary dishes.
Weeding
Weeding around a Savory plant, whether it’s summer or winter savory, requires a gentle approach to avoid disturbing its delicate root system. The best strategy is to employ manual weeding techniques. Begin by regularly inspecting the surrounding soil for any emerging weeds, as addressing them early makes removal easier. Use a hand tool like a weeding fork or a small trowel to pry out weeds, ensuring you grasp them by the base to minimize root breakage and ensure complete removal. It's advisable to weed after rain or watering, as moist soil makes the task simpler. Mulching around the Savory plant with organic materials, such as straw or wood chips, can help suppress future weed growth while retaining moisture. Practicing these methods not only keeps the area around your savory plant tidy but also promotes healthier growth by reducing competition for nutrients and water.
Mulching
Mulching Savory plants is an effective strategy to enhance soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Begin by selecting an organic mulch, such as straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves, which will enrich the soil as it decomposes. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the Savory plant, ensuring it extends at least a few inches outwards, but keep it approximately an inch away from the stem to prevent rot. A thickness of about 2 to 3 inches is ideal to provide adequate coverage without smothering the plant. Mulching should ideally be done in spring, once the soil has warmed, to help retain moisture during the hotter months when the plant is most active. Regularly check the mulch layer, replenishing it as necessary to maintain its effectiveness throughout the growing season. This practice not only benefits the plant but also promotes a healthier garden ecosystem.
Fertilizing
Savory plants, particularly the annual variety (Satureja hortensis) and the perennial type (Satureja montana), thrive in well-drained soils enriched with organic matter. The best strategy for fertilizing savory is to focus on soil preparation before planting. Incorporate a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer or compost into the soil to ensure the plants have a steady supply of nutrients. This approach not only supports healthy growth but also fosters strong flavors.
During the growing season, avoid heavy fertilization, as savory prefers slightly lean conditions to enhance its aromatic qualities. A light application of a liquid fertilizer, such as fish emulsion or a weak solubility of balanced fertilizer, can be beneficial around mid-season if the leaves appear pale or growth is stunted. Take care to water thoroughly after fertilizing to facilitate nutrient absorption and prevent root burn. Ultimately, moderation is key, supporting the plant’s health without compromising its distinctive taste.
Varieties
The Savory plant, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae), has two main varieties that are commonly recognized and cultivated for culinary use. The first is summer savory (Satureja hortensis), known for its robust flavor and is often used in various dishes such as beans, meats, and Mediterranean cuisine. Summer savory is an annual herb, thriving in warm weather and typically growing up to 24 inches tall. It features slender, green leaves and produces small white to purple flowers during the summer months.
The second variety is winter savory (Satureja Montana), a hardier, perennial herb that has a more intense flavor compared to its summer counterpart. Winter savory is used in similar culinary applications, particularly in stews, sausages, and as a seasoning for meats. It has a lower growth habit, typically reaching around 12 to 18 inches tall, and is favored for its ability to withstand colder temperatures, allowing it to thrive in gardens with winter freezes. Both varieties have their unique characteristics and uses, making them popular among gardeners and chefs alike.
Nutritional Composition (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 265 kcal | 13% |
| Protein | 9 g | 18% |
| Total Fat | 6 g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g | 20% |
| Dietary Fiber | 40 g | 160% |
| Sugars | 0 g | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 1,500 IU | 30% |
| Vitamin C | 50 mg | 83% |
| Calcium | 240 mg | 24% |
| Iron | 9.5 mg | 53% |
| Magnesium | 200 mg | 50% |
| Potassium | 1,400 mg | 40% |
Health Benefits
Savory, often characterized by its aromatic, peppery flavor, is utilized not only in culinary applications but also in various health and wellness contexts. The herb is known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can enhance digestive health. Traditionally, savory has been used to relieve digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and upset stomachs, thanks to its carminative qualities that help in soothing the digestive tract.
Additionally, savory is rich in antioxidants, which can play a role in combating oxidative stress in the body. These antioxidants help support overall health by reducing inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. The herb is also considered beneficial for respiratory issues; its volatile oils can help clear congestion and can be soothing when used in herbal teas.
Furthermore, savory is thought to possess mood-lifting properties, often attributed to its scent and flavor, which can enhance culinary dishes and improve palatability. This aromatic herb can serve to elevate the mood through cooking and sensory stimulation, making it a rich addition to both physical health rituals and emotional well-being practices. Incorporating savory into meals not only enhances flavor but also adds various health benefits for a holistic approach to wellness.
Fun Facts
- Savory is often referred to as the "herb of love" and has been used since ancient times for its aromatic properties and culinary versatility.
- There are two main types of savory: summer savory (Satureja hortensis) and winter savory (Satureja montana), each having its unique flavor profile and growth characteristics.
- This herb is a natural pest repellent and can help deter aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies, making it a beneficial addition to an organic garden.
- Savory is rich in essential oils, particularly carvacrol and thymol, which not only enhance its flavor but also provide potential antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.
- In cooking, savory is commonly used in bean dishes, meat preparations, and marinades, and pairs well with other herbs like thyme and rosemary, complementing rich flavors.