Summer savory is an annual culinary herb in the mint family, grown for peppery, thyme-like leaves that pair with beans, lentils and grilled meats; it is the bean herb of German cooking and a core ingredient of herbes de Provence. It grows 12 to 18 inches, upright and a little sprawling, with small pale pink flowers in midsummer that the bees like.
It is frost-sensitive, so sow directly after the last frost once the soil has warmed, barely covering the seed, and thin to 6 to 8 inches, or start indoors four weeks earlier. Full sun and average soil that drains are all it needs, and it gives usable leaves within two months of sowing. Pinch the growing tips early to make it branch and delay flowering. Harvest before and during bloom for the strongest flavour, and dry whole stems for winter; it dries well.
It self-seeds readily if the flowers are left to mature, and volunteers come up the next spring where the soil is warm. Deer and rabbits leave it alone. Winter savory (Satureja montana) is the perennial relative, stronger and more resinous, for a permanent spot.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves - usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Damping Off
Seedlings collapse at the soil line with thin, water-soaked stems; seeds may fail to emerge or rot before sprouting.
Sow in well-draining mix, avoid overwatering, and ensure good airflow. Remove affected seedlings and let the surface dry between waterings.
Root rot
Plants wilt, yellow, and stunt even in moist soil; lower stems and roots turn brown, soft, and mushy and the plant may collapse. Most common in heavy, wet, or poorly drained ground.
Improve drainage and stop overwatering, and never plant too deep. Lift and destroy badly affected plants along with the soil around the roots. Grow in raised or free-draining beds to prevent it returning.
Aphids
Aphididae →Clusters of small soft insects on new growth and flower buds.
Knock off with a strong jet of water. Ladybirds and lacewings are natural predators. Insecticidal soap as last resort.