Marjoram is an aromatic herb that is a type of oregano, however it is milder, more tender and is an annual, as opposed to a perennial oregano. It's pretty pink and white flowers are very attractive to the bees too!

It can be sown from seed from March onwards indoors, marjoram seeds can take approximately 3 weeks to germinate and are better to be propagated or use some clear plastic until the seedlings appear. Latest sowing should be by July, outside.

Once the seedlings are big enough to handle you can pot on in 3-inch pots and then into larger containers or the soil outside, once they have become established. They will like a sunny spot in well-drained soil or compost. Marjoram will require space to spread out.

Keep your herbs weed-free and watered during dry spells.

Marjoram is a pick and come again plant, so you can regularly pick the leaves as and when they are required. Picking the leaves regularly will encourage re-growth and help prevent bolting; unless you are growing for seed, of course. You should be able to keep harvesting leaves until late September before this annual herb is spent.

Marjoram is used similarly to oregano but with a more subtle flavour. It can be eaten fresh or cooked and it can also be frozen or dried for storage.