Overview
Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq. is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family, which includes many commonly used culinary herbs such as mint, basil, and oregano.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Mint-scented Savory or Calamintha
Appearance
S. calamintha var. glandulosa is a small, bushy plant that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has slender stems with small, oval-shaped green leaves that are about 1 cm in length. The plant produces tiny white or pink flowers that bloom in summer.
Uses
Calamintha has been used for centuries in Mediterranean cooking, particularly in Italian and Greek cuisine. It has a refreshing minty flavor and is often used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and salads. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy as a mood enhancer and to ease anxiety. It is also grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Growth Conditions of Satureja Calamintha (L.) Scheele var. Glandulosa (Riquien) Briq.
Light: Satureja calamintha requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development. The plant should be grown in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: Satureja calamintha is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in a temperature range of 15-27°C (59-81°F). The plant is intolerant to extreme temperatures and frosty conditions.
Soil: Satureja calamintha prefers well-drained soil with adequate moisture retention. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, within the range of 6.5-7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers soil rich in organic matter and with good soil structure.
Moisture: Satureja calamintha is sensitive to waterlogging, and the soil should be well-drained. The plant requires adequate moisture, and the soil should be kept slightly moist during the growing season. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: Satureja calamintha is a moderate feeder and requires regular fertilization to maintain optimal growth and development. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilizer application should be done during the growing season in moderation.
Cultivation Methods
Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq., also known as mountain savory, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Southern Europe, where it can be found on rocky and dry slopes. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade and has well-drained soil, preferably with a pH level between 6.8 and 7.2.
The planting season for Satureja calamintha is from late spring to early summer. Before planting, make sure to weed the area and loosen the soil, removing any rocks or debris. Plant the seedlings or seeds about 30cm apart and ensure that they are watered well after planting. Once the plants have become established, they require minimal attention and can grow up to 60cm in height.
Watering Needs
Satureja calamintha requires moderate watering during the growing season. When planting, make sure the soil is moist, and the plant is watered thoroughly. Afterwards, water the plant whenever the soil is dry to the touch, approximately once a week. Avoid overwatering since it can lead to root rot and other diseases. In the winter season, reduce watering frequency to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Mountain savory does not require heavy fertilization; generally, the plant only needs a single annual application of fertilizer in the spring season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10. Apply the fertilizer to the plant's base, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding dosage and application. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and a reduced concentration of aromatic compounds in the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Satureja calamintha is essential to promote bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It's best to prune the plant in the early spring season when new growth buds are visible. To avoid cutting too much of the plant, prune no more than one-third of the current year's growth. Use pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf or bud. It is also essential to remove any dead or diseased plant material regularly.
Propagation of Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq.
Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq. or commonly known as Calamint is a popular herb found in the Mediterranean region. It can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest way to propagate Calamint is by seeds. You can collect seeds from the herb when they have turned brown and dry. You can directly sow these seeds in a well-draining soil mix in the spring or fall, depending on the climate. Calamint seeds can take up to 3 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by cuttings
To propagate Calamint by cuttings, take 2-3 inches long stem cuttings from the herb in the spring. Strip the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the stem in rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. After a few weeks, the cutting will start to root, and you can transplant it to a larger container or in the garden.
Propagation by division
Calamint can also be propagated by division. In the spring, lift the plant from the ground and separate the root ball into smaller clumps. Replant the clumps in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. The transplanted plants should be watered regularly until they establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq.
Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq., also known as lesser calamint, is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. While this plant is generally disease and pest-resistant, it can still be affected by a few common issues that include:
Diseases
Pythium root rot: Pythium fungi typically thrive in wet soil conditions and often infect the roots, leading to root rot that can eventually kill the plant. To manage this, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure it is grown in well-draining soil. Applying fungicides may also be necessary to control the disease.
Rust: Rust disease typically appears as yellowish-orange spots on the leaves and stems. To combat this disease, prune and dispose of any affected parts of the plant, and avoid watering the plant late in the evening to minimize moisture buildup on the plant, which can encourage rust growth. Use of fungicides can also be helpful in managing the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can be identified by the presence of fine webbing on the plant. To control this pest, use a strong spray of water to wash the mites off the plant and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill any remaining mites.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies feed on the sap of the plant's leaves, which can lead to yellowing and death of the foliage. To manage this pest, regularly inspect the plant and remove any heavily infested leaves. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, or use insecticidal soaps or oils to control whiteflies.
Overall, preventing disease and pest infestations is crucial to maintaining the health of Satureja calamintha (L.) Scheele var. glandulosa (Riquien) Briq. Regularly inspecting the plant, practicing proper watering techniques, and applying occasional fungal sprays or insecticidal soaps can help control common issues effectively.
