Plant Profile

Winter SavorySatureja montana

Winter savory is a hardy, winter-hardy herb with an intense, peppery flavor. It is excellent for herb gardens, beds with Mediterranean herbs, and as a potted plant. A classic spice for bean dishes and herb blends.

HerbsMint family
Calendar
Winter Savory (Satureja montana): plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest March - December
Winter Savory: plant portrait. harvest: March - December.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning
Direct sowing outdoorsPlanting outdoorsHarvestPruning

Good neighbors

BeansCabbageStrawberriescommon sage

Avoid

FennelCoriander

Indoor & direct sowing

Winter Savory: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Pre-cultivation is not common for winter savory.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing is possible, but pre-cultivation in spring is often more productive. Sow into well-prepared soil.

Seed depth0.5 - 1 cm
Germination temp15 - 20 °C
Germination time10 - 20 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorNo
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Winter Savory: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

After the last frosts, once the plants have been hardened off.

Plant spacing20 - 30 cm
Row spacing30 - 40 cm
Plants per m²6 - 10 per m²
Bed widthfrom 40 cm

Site & practical notes

Winter savory requires a full sun to partial shade location. Warm, wind-protected spots, such as against a south-facing wall or on a sunny terrace, are ideal.The plant prefers permeable, rather lean soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Waterlogging must be avoided as it can lead to root rot.Winter savory is drought-resistant but requires regular, moderate watering, especially during germination and establishment of young plants. Avoid waterlogging.A light fertilization with compost or organic liquid fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Over-fertilization can impair the flavor.Regular pruning after flowering encourages bushy growth and prevents lignification. Dead or damaged shoots should be removed in spring.Winter savory is hardy but benefits from a light mulch layer in autumn to protect the roots from severe frost. In harsh areas, a fleece can be helpful.Harvesting can be done continuously. For drying, cut the shoots before flowering. Fresh shoots can be harvested year-round, especially in mild regions.Dried herbs should be stored airtight and in the dark. Fresh shoots last a few days in the refrigerator. Freezing is possible but less aromatic.Winter savory is relatively robust. Aphids may occasionally appear. Waterlogging leads to root rot. Over-fertilization impairs flavor.Good neighbors are beans, cabbage, strawberries, sage, rosemary, thyme, and lavender. Bad neighbors are fennel and coriander.

Temperature & frost

Winter Savory: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 10 °C
Optimal temperature18 - 24 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature10 - 15 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveNo
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

Winter Savory: Water, nutrients and care

Waterlow
Critical water phasesGermination, Establishment of young plants
Watering methodSoaking
Droughtlow
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needlight_feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Winter Savory: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 5 l; Recommended: from 10 l; Diameter: from 20 cm; Depth: from 20 cm
SupportNo
Height30 - 60 cm
Width30 - 40 cm
Yield50 - 150 g

Year plan

Winter Savory Calendar

Plants

In summer, winter savory blooms with small white to pale pink flowers that attract bees. Harvest for drying occurs before flowering.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning

Recurring tasks

Removal of winter damage and preparation for new growth.March - April
After the risk of hard frost has passed. Light pruning for shaping.
Planting outApril - June
Nach den letzten Frösten, Jungpflanzen abgehärtet: Plant the young plants at a distance of 20-30 cm.
Soil careMay - June
Bei Bedarf: Keep the area around the plants free of weeds.
HarvestJune - December
Pflanzen wachsen: Regular harvesting stimulates new growth and keeps the plant compact. · Pflanzen wachsen: Harvest as needed for...
Removal of faded flower stalks to encourage branching and for harvest.July - August
After the main flowering period. Can also be used for harvesting shoots.
Winter protectionSeptember - October
Vor dem ersten Frost: A light mulch layer protects the roots from severe frost.

Relevant now

June

  • FertilizingBei Anzeichen von Nährstoffmangel oder schwachem Wachstum: Light fertilization with compost or organic liquid fertilizer is sufficient.

Next up

July

  • PruningNach der Blüte: Remove faded flower stalks to prevent seed formation and encourage new growth.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingHarvestGrowingPruningPlant health

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Sowing/Pre-cultivationSoil care

Direct sowing

  • Sowing/Pre-cultivationBoden ist bearbeitbar: Direct sowing outdoors from March possible when soil is warm. Pre-cultivation indoors from February/March.

Growing

  • Soil careBoden ist bearbeitbar: Remove weeds and stones, improve drainage.

April

Harvest

Harvest

  • HarvestPflanzen haben sich etabliert: Harvest carefully to avoid damaging the plant.

May

Harvest

Harvest

  • HarvestPflanzen wachsen: Regular harvesting stimulates new growth and keeps the plant compact.

June

Fertilizing

Growing

  • FertilizingBei Anzeichen von Nährstoffmangel oder schwachem Wachstum: Light fertilization with compost or organic liquid fertilizer is sufficient.

July

Pruning

Pruning

  • PruningNach der Blüte: Remove faded flower stalks to prevent seed formation and encourage new growth.

August

Pest and disease control

Plant health

  • Pest and disease controlRegelmäßig: Winter savory is relatively robust, but watch out for aphids.

September

No additional single task

October

Light pruning for shaping and preparing for winter.Pruning

Pruning

  • Light pruning for shaping and preparing for winter.Only if necessary to keep the plant tidy. Avoid heavy cuts.
  • PruningNach Bedarf: Light pruning can improve appearance and prepare the plant for winter.

November

Winter protection

Plant health

  • Winter protectionBei anhaltender Kälte: A thick mulch layer or fleece can protect the plant.

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Winter Savory Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

self-fertile

Pollinator needed

no

Overview

Winter savory is self-pollinating but is also visited by insects.

Notes

Although self-pollinating, the plant attracts bees and other pollinators, contributing to the overall garden ecosystem.

Pruning & care

Winter Savory Pruning & care

Pruning type

renewal pruning

Pruning timing

Spring

Removal of winter damage and preparation for new growth. After the risk of hard frost has passed. Light pruning for shaping.

Summer

Removal of faded flower stalks to encourage branching and for harvest. After the main flowering period. Can also be used for harvesting shoots.

Autumn

Light pruning for shaping and preparing for winter. Only if necessary to keep the plant tidy. Avoid heavy cuts.

Remove

Dead, diseased, or damaged shoots.Faded flower stalks to prevent seed formation and redirect energy into vegetative growth.Overly long or untidy shoots to improve shape.

Preserve

Healthy, young shoots for harvest.The base of the plant to allow for new growth.Sufficient foliage for photosynthesis.

Avoid

Radical cutting back into old wood, unless the plant needs rejuvenation.Pruning during frost.Removing more than one-third of the plant at once, unless it is dead material.

Tools and hygiene

Clean pruning tools before and after use to prevent disease transmission.

Companion guide

Winter Savory Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

BeansCabbageStrawberriescommon sageRosmarinus tomentosusThymusLavandula

Avoid

FennelCoriander

Use & storage

Winter Savory Use & storage

Harvest

Harvesting can be done continuously. For drying, cut the shoots before flowering.

Storage

Herbs

Storage life

Dried: 1-2 years. Fresh: a few days.

Harvest

Harvesting can be done continuously. For drying, cut the shoots before flowering.

Processing

Drying in a airy place or dehydrator.Chopping and storing airtight.Infusing in oil or vinegar.

After harvest

Use fresh shoots immediately or store cool. Store dried herbs in an airtight container.

Edibility & safety

Winter Savory Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Leaves, Young shoots
Raw consumption:Can be consumed raw in small quantities, but is usually more aromatic cooked or dried.

Safety notes

No known toxicity with normal consumption.

Animal safety

For animals, the plant part matters here: suitable parts sit alongside risky parts, and 2 animal profiles carry a cautious or negative rating.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

usually no action needed

As with any plant material, consumption of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Individual sensitivity

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea)

usually no action needed

However, as with any plant material, consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, especially with excessive intake or individual sensitivity.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (if consumed in excess)

observe

While Winter Savory is listed as non-toxic for dogs, cats, and horses and is a culinary herb for humans, there is no specific data for guinea pigs. Due to its essential oil content, it should only be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption, Sensitive digestion

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

No specific data is available for hamsters. Due to its strong aroma and hamsters' sensitive digestion, if offered at all, it should only be given in very small quantities as an occasional treat to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)

usually no action needed

Winter Savory is listed as non-toxic for other common pets and is used as a culinary herb. Fresh leaves can be offered in small amounts as an occasional treat. Large quantities might cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to essential oils.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (if consumed in excessive amounts)

observe

Winter Savory is listed as non-toxic for other common pets (dogs, cats, horses) and is used as a culinary herb for humans. In small quantities, as a treat or for enrichment, it is likely safe for chickens. Excessive consumption, as with any plant, may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)

usually no action needed

Winter Savory is a culinary herb classified as non-toxic for other animals. It is presumed safe for ducks in small quantities, but not suitable as a primary feed. Excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption

usually no action needed

Winter Savory is generally considered non-toxic and is used as a culinary herb. While no specific data for geese is available, moderate consumption of leaves and young shoots as a treat is likely safe. Overconsumption might cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

No suitable parts listed

Whole plant (especially with excessive consumption)

Risk factors

Large quantities, Sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Winter Savory contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive quantities. It is not a typical forage for sheep and should not be offered as such.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

usually no action needed

Winter savory is a culinary herb generally considered non-toxic. While specific data for goats is lacking, it is classified as safe in moderation due to its general safety profile and use in human diets. Excessive consumption of essential oils could theoretically lead to gastrointestinal upset, but is unlikely with normal intake.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Availability as pasture plant, Lack of alternative feed sources, Ingestion of large quantities

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (potentially with large quantities)

observe

While Winter Savory is generally considered safe for human consumption in small quantities and non-toxic for some pets, there is no specific data regarding its safety or suitability for cattle. Ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset due to its essential oil content. It is not recommended as a feed.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Leaves, Young shoots

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess

usually no action needed

Winter savory is traditionally used as a spice and medicinal herb. For pigs, it is considered generally safe in moderate amounts, with excessive consumption potentially leading to mild gastrointestinal upset. There are no known toxic components.

Open animal page

This does not replace veterinary advice. If risky plant parts were ingested or symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

do not feed

Urgency

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Saving seed

Winter Savory Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Practical tips

Winter Savory Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Overwatering leads to waterlogging and root rot. Winter savory is drought-resistant and requires only moderate watering.Over-fertilization impairs flavor. Compost or organic liquid fertilizer in spring is sufficient.Heavy pruning in autumn can weaken the plant. Light pruning for shaping is better.

Success pattern

Winter savory thrives especially well in sunny, permeable soils with good ventilation. Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth and keeps the plant compact.Combining it with other Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage results in a harmonious herb garden with similar care requirements.Light pruning after flowering and in spring promotes branching and extends the plant's lifespan.

High-impact tips

Plant winter savory in a full sun location with permeable soil. Water moderately and avoid waterlogging.Harvest regularly to promote bushy growth. Light pruning after flowering is sufficient.Mulch lightly in autumn to protect the roots from severe frost. In harsh areas, a fleece can be helpful.

Grower observations

Winter savory grows especially well in sunny, wind-protected locations and tolerates drier soils.Regular pruning keeps the plant compact and promotes leaf formation.In harsh areas, light winter protection (mulch) can facilitate overwintering.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Winter Savory (Satureja montana): plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest March - December
Winter Savory (Satureja montana): whole plant for plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest March - December

Health

Pests, Diseases

Plant health

PestsDiseasesDeficiencies

Diagnosis help

Winter Savory Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Aphids

Disease groups

Root rot

Prevention

Ensure good drainage.Avoid over-fertilization.Adequate plant spacing for good air circulation.Remove infested plant parts.Promote beneficial insects or treat with biological agents for aphid infestation.

Diagnosis

Symptoms like yellowing leaves or poor growth may indicate waterlogging or nutrient imbalance. Aphids are easily identified as small green or black insects on shoots and leaves.

Cultural prevention

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.Avoid waterlogging through proper watering and soil improvement if necessary.Ensure adequate plant spacing for ventilation.Avoid over-fertilization, as this can make the plant more susceptible.

Monitoring

Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases, especially during humid weather.Monitor soil moisture levels.

First response

For aphids: Spray with water, use neem oil or a mixture of water and soft soap.For root rot: Remove affected plants and allow soil to dry, improve soil if necessary.

Diagnostic rules

Wilting or yellowing leaves, especially at the base, despite adequate watering.

Possible causes: Root rot

  • Check soil moisture (is it too wet?)
  • Examine roots for rot

Small, sticky insects on young shoots and leaf undersides, often with distorted leaves.

Possible causes: Aphids

  • Inspect plants for insect infestation
  • Check for the presence of ants (often symbiotic with aphids)

FAQ

Can winter savory be grown in a pot?

Yes, winter savory is well-suited for growing in pots. Use a pot with a minimum diameter of 20 cm and good drainage. Repotting every 2-3 years promotes plant health.

How often should winter savory be watered?

Winter savory is drought-resistant and requires only moderate watering. Avoid waterlogging. During germination and establishment of young plants, the soil should be kept evenly moist.

When is the best time to harvest winter savory?

Winter savory can be harvested continuously. For drying, cut the shoots before flowering (July-August). Fresh shoots can be harvested year-round, especially in mild regions.

How to dry winter savory properly?

Bundle the harvested shoots into small bunches and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated, dark, and dry place. Alternatively, spread the shoots on a rack. After about 2-3 weeks, the herbs are dry and can be stored in airtight jars.

Can winter savory be frozen?

Yes, winter savory can be frozen. Wash the shoots, dry them thoroughly, and freeze them in portions in freezer bags. However, it loses some flavor when frozen.

How to protect winter savory in winter?

Winter savory is hardy but benefits from a light mulch layer in autumn to protect the roots from severe frost. In harsh areas or for sensitive potted plants, a fleece can be helpful.

What pests attack winter savory?

Winter savory is relatively robust, but aphids may occasionally appear, especially on young shoots. Waterlogging leads to root rot. Over-fertilization can make the plant more susceptible to pests.

Can winter savory be grown from seed?

Yes, winter savory can be grown from seed. Germination occurs at 15-20°C within 10-20 days. Direct sowing is possible from March, pre-cultivation indoors from February/March.

How to prune winter savory correctly?

After flowering, faded shoots can be pruned back to encourage bushy growth. Dead or damaged shoots should be removed in spring. A hard prune every 2-3 years rejuvenates older plants.

Which herbs go well with winter savory?

Good companion herbs are sage, rosemary, thyme, and lavender. These Mediterranean herbs have similar site requirements and mutually promote growth. Fennel and coriander should be avoided.

Is Winter Savory safe for Dog?

Winter Savory is classified as suitable for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: usually no action needed. As with any plant material, consumption of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Is Winter Savory safe for Cat?

Winter Savory is classified as moderation only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: usually no action needed. However, as with any plant material, consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, especially with excessive intake or individual sensitivity.

Is Winter Savory safe for Rabbit?

Winter Savory is classified as not established for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: unknown. No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Is Winter Savory safe for Sheep?

Winter Savory is classified as do not feed for Sheep. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Winter Savory contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive quantities. It is not a typical forage for sheep and should not be offered as such.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-12

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-12

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Winter-Bohnenkraut

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-12

  4. English Wikipedia: Winter savory

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-12

  5. PlantNet species data

    PlantNet · 2026-05-12

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