How to grow Summer Savory in New Zealand
Summer savory is a quick, aromatic annual herb with a peppery, thyme-like flavour, known as the bean herb because it is the traditional partner for broad beans and green beans. It is easy from a spring or early summer sowing in a warm, sunny spot, and milder and sweeter than its perennial cousin, winter savory.
📖 Our full guide: How to Grow Summer Savory in New Zealand
At a glance
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| Northland | September to January | |
| Auckland | September to January | |
| Waikato & Bay of Plenty | September to January | |
| Central North Island | November and December | |
| Wellington & Lower North Island | October to January | |
| Nelson & Marlborough | October to January | |
| Canterbury | November and December | |
| Otago & Southland | November and December | |
| Central Otago | December |
Not to be confused with: Winter savory, a related perennial with a stronger, more bitter flavour used much like sage.
Where to plant
Sow summer savory in full sun in well-drained soil enriched with compost. Avoid heavy clay, or plant on mounds. It is a warmth-loving annual, so wait until the soil has warmed in spring.
- Northland, Auckland, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty: sow from September to January.
- Wellington and Nelson: sow from October to January.
- Central North Island, Canterbury, Otago and Southland: sow in November and December; in Central Otago, in December.
How to plant
- Sow seed thinly in a row about 5 mm deep, cover and water in well.
- When the seedlings are up, thin them to about 30 cm apart.
- Mulch lightly around them to hold moisture.
Watering and feeding
Water regularly while the plants establish, then whenever the soil dries out. Feed with a liquid fertiliser every week or two, or dig compost in before sowing.
Pruning and care through the year
- Pinch out the tips to keep plants bushy.
- Sow again in early summer for a second crop.
- Let a few plants flower for the bees, and collect seed from them for next year.
Harvesting
Pick leaves and sprigs as needed. For drying, cut the stems just as the plant starts to flower, when the flavour is strongest, and hang them in an airy, shady place. Use it with beans, in stuffings, soups, stews and with grilled meats; it is one of the herbs in herbes de Provence.
Growing in pots
Summer savory grows well in a pot at least 30 cm wide in full sun, in a quality potting mix. Keep it watered, but do not let the pot stand in water.
Varieties
- Summer Savory
Companion planting
Summer savory is the traditional companion for beans, in the garden and in the kitchen.
Good companions
- Beans The bean herb: a traditional pairing, sown in the same bed and cooked together.
- Broad Beans Grown and cooked together in European kitchen gardens.
- Onion A traditional neighbour in the vegetable bed.
Pests and diseases
Summer savory has few pests or diseases in a sunny, well-drained spot.
Summer Savory is rarely troubled by pests.
Diseases to watch for
- Root rot Plants yellow and collapse in wet, heavy soil.
Common questions
What is the difference between summer and winter savory?
Summer savory is an annual with a sweeter, milder flavour. Winter savory is a perennial with a stronger, more bitter taste, used much like sage.
Why is it called the bean herb?
Summer savory has long been grown with beans and cooked with them, especially broad beans and green beans.
When do I sow summer savory?
In spring once the soil has warmed, and again in early summer. It is a warmth-loving annual. Choose your region at the top of the page for the months.
Can I dry summer savory?
Yes. Cut stems just as flowering starts and hang them in an airy, shady place. Strip the dried leaves into a jar.
Can I grow summer savory in a pot?
Yes, in a pot at least 30 cm wide with a quality potting mix, in full sun.
Sources we checked: Yates NZ: How to grow savory; Kings Seeds: Summer savory.