Growing summer savory (<i>Satureja hortensis</i>) in Scotland: Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the volatile oil and factors influencing oil production

Abstract

Abstract Analysis of oil obtained from growing summer savory (Satureja hortensis L) in the west of Scotland through four contrasting seasons (1984–1987) showed that, without exception, the quality and quantity of oil produced were of a commercially acceptable standard although the cultivars used had not been especially selected for growing in northern Britain. Optimal harvesting time for the maximum yield of good quality oil was found to be during early to mid flowering. Hot, dry conditions did not enhance oil content and neither did the application of fertiliser or herbicide. It is concluded that summer savory will regularly produce a commercially acceptable oil under Scottish conditions.