How to Grow Summer Savory in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
Annual herb with a peppery, thyme-like flavour, known as the bean herb and a traditional partner for broad and green beans. Quick and easy from a spring or early-summer sowing in a warm, sunny spot. Milder than the perennial winter savory.
When to plant summer savory 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, September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, September, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, September, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | November, December |
| Otago & Southland | November, December |
| Central Otago | December |
Best summer savory varieties for NZ
- Summer Savory, Quick-growing annual with a peppery, thyme-like flavour, the classic bean herb. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mr Fothergill's NZ)
How to grow summer savory
- Space plants about 20cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.5cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 60 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 10 days.
Companion planting
Grow summer savory near: Beans, Onion.
Pests and problems
Watch for: few pests. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
🌱 Plant Summer Savory in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Summer Savory plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant summer savory in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy summer savory seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mr Fothergill's NZ.