How to Grow Marjoram in New Zealand
Sweet marjoram is the milder, more floral relative of oregano and likes free-draining soil in full sun. Perennial in the frost-free north and often grown as an annual where winters are colder. Harvest before flowering for the best flavour, and it does well in pots and as an edging.
When to plant marjoram in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December |
Best marjoram varieties for NZ
- Sweet Marjoram — Sweeter and more floral than oregano, the gentler culinary cousin, good in pots. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds, Mr Fothergill's NZ)
- Pot Marjoram — Hardier perennial form with a slightly stronger, more oregano-like flavour. (Egmont Seeds, garden centres)
How to grow marjoram
- Space plants about 25cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.3cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 75 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Companion planting
Grow marjoram near: Capsicum, Tomato, Beans, Brassicas.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Spider mite. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant marjoram in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy marjoram seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds, Mr Fothergill's NZ.