From our perspective, the single most critical factor in our survival is not being drowned. Our roots are not adapted to sit in waterlogged conditions. Soggy soil suffocates us by depriving our root systems of essential oxygen and creates an environment where harmful root rot fungi thrive. Therefore, the growing medium must be exceptionally well-draining. A standard garden soil, which tends to compact in containers and retain too much moisture, is a death sentence for us. We require a potting mix that is specifically formulated for container life, one that is loose and airy, allowing excess water to flow through freely after each watering.
The perfect soil structure for us mimics our native Mediterranean habitats—rocky, sandy, and relatively low in organic matter. A high-quality commercial "Cactus & Succulent Mix" or a "Mediterranean Herb Potting Mix" is often an excellent ready-made choice. If you are blending your own, we thrive in a simple mixture of:
• One part potting soil (a soilless base, not garden soil)
• One part coarse sand or horticultural grit
• One part perlite or pumice
This combination ensures the mix remains loose and prevents compaction. The inorganic components like sand and perlite create permanent air pockets, facilitating drainage and root respiration, while the small amount of potting soil provides a minimal anchor and a slow-release source of some nutrients.
Contrary to what you might think, we are not heavy feeders. In fact, an overly rich, nitrogen-heavy soil will encourage rapid, weak, and leggy growth at the expense of the potent essential oils that give us our signature flavor and aroma. Our growth is naturally slow and steady. A slightly lean or nutrient-poor soil promotes a more concentrated flavor and a denser, hardier plant structure. The minimal organic matter in the recommended mix will provide enough nutrients for the first few months. After that, a light feeding with a diluted, balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season is more than sufficient.
We slightly prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH, ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. This pH range allows for the optimal availability of the minerals we need. Most standard potting mixes fall within an acceptable range. However, if your water is very acidic, you can occasionally add a tiny amount of crushed limestone or dolomite lime to the top of the pot and water it in to gently nudge the pH upwards. This is rarely a critical issue in container culture but is a preference we have inherited from our origins in limestone-rich coastal regions.
The container you choose is an extension of our soil environment. It must have adequate drainage holes—multiple holes are better than one. A pot made of a porous material like terracotta or clay is highly beneficial. These materials allow the soil to breathe from the sides, helping to wick away excess moisture and further preventing the soil from staying wet for too long, which aligns perfectly with our need for dry feet.
