Savory, encompassing both summer and winter varieties, brings a delightful blend of flavors and fragrances to any garden. These herbs are prized for their aromatic leaves and versatility in culinary applications, making them favorites among gardeners and chefs alike. Summer savory, an annual, offers a subtle peppery flavor, while winter savory, a perennial, provides a more robust and hearty taste. Both varieties are excellent for seasoning meats, beans, vegetables, and more.

In Florida planting zone 9, both summer and winter savory thrive under the right conditions. Summer savory flourishes during the warmer months, growing quickly into bushy, compact mounds with slender stems and lilac-colored flowers. It is perfect for continuous harvesting throughout its growing season, providing a steady supply of aromatic leaves. Winter savory, on the other hand, thrives during the cooler months. Its evergreen, dark green leaves and white to pale pink flowers add year-round beauty and utility to the garden. The perennial nature of winter savory means it will withstand cooler temperatures and continue to provide flavorful leaves season after season.

For those new to gardening, both varieties of savory are excellent choices. Summer savory is very easy to grow, making it ideal for beginners looking for a quick-growing, productive herb. It provides a continuous supply of leaves that can be used fresh or dried, adding a delightful peppery element to dishes. Winter savory, equally easy to cultivate, offers a robust flavor that enhances soups, sausages, and roasted vegetables. Its hardiness and perennial growth make it a resilient and reliable addition to the garden.

Watching savory plants flourish, with their aromatic leaves and delicate flowers, is a rewarding experience. These herbs not only enhance the culinary possibilities in your kitchen but also add visual appeal and a delightful fragrance to your garden beds, containers, or herb gardens. Whether you choose summer or winter savory, or both, these plants will make your gardening endeavors both enjoyable and fruitful.

I would give both summer and winter savory a 5 out of 5 on how easy they are to grow. They are very easy to cultivate and manage, making them perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

Savory Growing Guide for Zone 9

Planting Time: In Florida, plant summer savory in early spring or fall. Winter savory can be planted in early spring or fall as well, thriving in cooler weather and mild cold.

Soil: Both summer and winter savory prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.7 and 7.3. Adding compost to the soil can improve fertility and structure.

Sun: Both summer and winter savory grow best in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Both types of savory are somewhat drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering during dry spells.

Spacing:

• Summer Savory: Plant seeds or transplants 6-12 inches apart. Summer savory can spread, so proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation and room for growth.

• Winter Savory: Plant seeds or transplants 12-18 inches apart. Winter savory can also spread, so proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation and room for growth.

Fertilization:
N-P-K Ratio: Both summer savory and winter savory benefit from a balanced fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen content to support lush, leafy growth, such as 10-10-10 or 16-16-8.

When to Add:

• Before Planting: Apply the fertilizer to the soil before planting seeds or transplants to promote strong initial growth.

• Early Spring: Reapply the fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.

• Mid-Growing Season: If needed, reapply the fertilizer lightly every 4-6 weeks to support continued growth. Summer savory may benefit from more frequent applications compared to winter savory, which is more resilient and requires less frequent fertilization.

Application Tips:

• Follow the directions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization.

• Apply the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plants and water thoroughly to help the nutrients reach the roots.

Additional Tips:

• Both types of savory grow best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, so consider adding compost to improve soil fertility and structure.

• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Ensure that both summer and winter savory receive consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, to prevent stress and promote healthy growth. However, summer savory may require more frequent watering compared to winter savory, which is more drought-tolerant.

Blog post on Natural Fertilizers

Harvesting: Summer and Winter Savory are ready to harvest when the stems are about 6-8 inches long, typically 60-70 days after planting. Pick the leaves as needed by snipping them off with scissors. For the best flavor, harvest before the plants start to flower. Summer Savory tends to have a milder flavor and is an annual, while Winter Savory has a stronger flavor and is a perennial. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth. Cut sprigs in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak for the best flavor.

Herb Uses:

Culinary Uses: Savoy is commonly used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, adding a peppery, thyme-like flavor to meats, beans, soups, and stews. Fresh or dried savory leaves are often included in herb blends like herbes de Provence.

Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used for its digestive and antiseptic properties. It is believed to help with digestive issues, reduce bloating, and act as an antiseptic. Savory tea is often used to soothe sore throats and aid in digestion.

Pests and Diseases that Affect Savory in Florida:

• Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing curling and yellowing.

• Spider Mites: Tiny mites that cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves.

Natural Pest Control

• Root Rot: A fungal disease that occurs in waterlogged soil.

• Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves.

Vegetables to Avoid Planting Near Savory:

None specific: Savory generally does not have specific companion planting issues but ensure it has enough space and is not overcrowded by other plants.