GROW GUIDE

Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis

Plant Description

Rosemary

Characterized by its woody stems and needle-like leaves, rosemary is a robust herb with a pungent, slightly bitter taste and a pine-like aroma.

Originating from the Mediterranean region, it belongs to the mint family and is revered in culinary traditions for its ability to complement a wide range of dishes, including roasted meats, breads, and vegetables.

Gardening Level: medium

Quick Facts:

  • Sun Requirements

    Full Sun

  • Days To Sprout

    14-21 Days

  • Days To Harvest

    90-200 Days

  • Plant Spacing

    24-36"

  • Seeds Per Hole

    3

  • Planting Depth

    1/4"

Best Planting Locations

  • Windowsills

    Good for compact growth and easy access, requires sufficient sunlight.

  • Balconies

    Suitable for container gardening with adequate sunlight and airflow.

  • Raised Beds

    Excellent as it needs well-drained soil and good air circulation.

  • Containers

    Ideal for controlling soil and moisture; can be moved to ensure sufficient sunlight.

Getting Started

  • 1

    Find the Spot

    Requires full sun and can tolerate some wind, making it ideal for open, sunny gardens. It can also grow indoors near a bright, sunny window.

  • 2

    Prep the Soil & Fertilizer

    Use well-drained, sandy soil. Rosemary does well in poor soils but benefits from a little compost mixed in. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm its flavor and scent.

  • 3

    Plant the Seeds

    Before planting, soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours to encourage germination. You can also scarify the seeds by gently scratching them with sandpaper or a nail file to create small breaks in the seed coat, helping water penetrate.

    Plant 4 seeds in each hole about 1/4" deep. Lightly cover seeds with a small amount of mix, ensuring they are still exposed to light. Place in a warm and sunny location, and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during germination.

    Aim for a soil temperature between 65° to 70° F. Space plants about 24-36 inches apart as rosemary can grow into a large bush.

Good Neighbors:

  • Beans:

    The varying root depths of rosemary and legumes mean they won't compete for nutrients, promoting better growth for both.

  • Cabbage:

    Rosemary has a strong aroma that covers the scent of brassicas, keeping pests away.

  • Carrots:

    Rosemary has a strong aroma that covers the scent of carrots, keeping pests away. Plant at the edge of carrot rows.

  • Sage:

    Similar growing requirements, rosemary plants intensify the health and flavor of sage.

  • Thyme:

    They require similar soil and sunlight conditions, and are sure to protect the garden from many pests.

Enemy Plants:

  • Basil, Cucumber & Pumpkin:

    Different growing requirements

Attractants:

  • Butterflies & Bees

    Rosemary flowers produce nectar, which is a rich food source.

Repellents:

  • Bean Beetle

    Rosemary repels many bean parasites

  • Cabbage Moths

    Repelled by rosemary's aroma

  • Mosquitoes

    Repelled by rosemary's aroma

  • Carrot Fly

    Repelled by rosemary's aroma

Best Time to Plant

USDA Hardiness Zones

Day to Day Maintenance

  • Watering

    Prefers drier conditions and should be watered sparingly. Ensure the soil is well-drained and only water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be cautious of over-watering.

  • Pruning

    Prune in the spring to maintain its shape and size. Regular pruning also encourages fresh, fragrant foliage. Cut back to just above a leaf joint to encourage branching.

The Harvest

  • Gathering

    Cut sprigs as needed, selecting shoots that are not overly woody. Snip them from the top to promote lateral growth and denser foliage.

  • Extra Tip

    Harvest early in the morning, especially if you plan to dry the sprigs, as this is when the aromatic oils are at their peak.

Favorite Uses

  • Lamb

  • Chicken

  • Stews

  • Tea

  • Olive Oil

How to Store

  • Oil Preservation

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method: Wash and dry the sprigs, then place them whole in freezer bags.

  • Vinegar Preservation

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Refrigerator
    • Method: Submerge in vinegar in a sealed jar. Use the infused vinegar for cooking or dressings.

  • Freezing

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method: Wash and dry the sprigs, then place them whole in freezer bags.

  • Drying

    • Duration: One year
    • Location: Warm, dry, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight
    • Method: Hang bunches upside down in a dark, dry place or spread them on a drying rack.

Fun Facts

  • Memory Enhancer

    Rosemary is traditionally associated with memory and remembrance, often worn at weddings and funerals alike to symbolize loyalty.

  • Natural Air Freshener

    Due to its strong, pleasant scent, rosemary branches are often used in bouquets and arrangements to freshen the air naturally.

  • Ancient Lore

    In ancient times, rosemary was believed to have protective powers. People crafted talismans from it to ward off poisoning and evil spirits!

  • Name Origins

    “Rosemary” comes from the Latin rosmarinus, meaning dew of the sea—a nod to its coastal roots and knack for thriving with just a little water.