SUMMER SAVORY GROW GUIDE

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	Depth to Plant	Spacing Between Plants	Days to Germinate (Sprout)	Germination Soil Temp	Best Season to Plant_________	Sun Requirement	Soil Requirements	Good Plant Companions	Days to Maturity
Shop Summer Savory Seeds	1/8" Deep	10" Apart	10-14 Days	Between 60° F and 70° F	Spring	Full Sun	Well drained	Onions and garlic	90

Getting Started with Summer Savory

Summer Savory is a delightful herb that brings a peppery, slightly minty flavor to your kitchen garden. This annual herb is straightforward to grow and thrives in warm conditions, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Whether you're planning to use it fresh in cooking or dry it for winter storage, understanding the basics of Summer Savory cultivation will set you up for success.

Choosing the Right Location and Soil

Summer Savory loves sunshine and needs at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to flourish. Plant it in a location where it receives plenty of light throughout the day. The herb is adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. If your garden soil tends to retain moisture, consider amending it with compost or sand to improve drainage. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, so this step is important for long-term plant health.

Planting and Spacing

You can start Summer Savory from seeds indoors about four to six weeks before your last spring frost, or direct sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Space plants about six to twelve inches apart to allow adequate air circulation. Proper spacing helps prevent fungal diseases and encourages bushier growth. Plant seeds about a quarter-inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes one to two weeks.

Watering and Feeding

Once established, Summer Savory is relatively drought-tolerant and prefers drier conditions. Water moderately and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is more harmful than underwatering with this herb. Fertilizing is generally unnecessary if your soil is reasonably fertile; however, a light application of balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in mid-summer can support continued growth. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which can reduce the intensity of the herb's flavor.

Harvesting for Maximum Flavor

Begin harvesting Summer Savory once the plant reaches about six inches tall. Pinching off the top leaves and stems encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. For the most flavorful harvest, pick leaves in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day intensifies. You can harvest continuously throughout the growing season, and the plant will continue to produce new foliage. If you want to dry the herb, cut stems just before flowering for peak flavor concentration.

Common Pests and Diseases

Summer Savory is relatively pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for spider mites in hot, dry conditions. Good air circulation and occasional misting can help prevent infestations. The herb is also quite resistant to most diseases, especially when grown in well-draining soil with proper spacing. If you notice any yellowing or wilting, check the soil moisture and adjust your watering routine accordingly.

End-of-Season Care

Since Summer Savory is an annual herb, it will naturally decline as temperatures cool in fall. Before the first frost, harvest the remaining foliage and dry it for winter use. To dry the herb, bundle stems together and hang them upside down in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once completely dry, strip the leaves and store them in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy the flavor of your Summer Savory long after the growing season ends.

In Summary