How to Grow Rosemary
Rosemary is a long-lived herb that thrives in dry conditions. Once established, it becomes one of the most reliable plants in the garden.
Overview
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a woody perennial herb that prefers sun, drainage, and lean soil. It grows slowly but steadily and can live for many years.
Primary uses
Cooking
Infusions
Drying, freezing, and freeze-drying
Common Rosemary Types
Upright varieties
Good for garden beds
Trailing varieties
Best for containers
Cold-hardy types
More tolerant of winter conditions
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, sandy
Water
Low once established
Airflow
Important in humid conditions
How to Plant (Including Companion Planting)
Grow from transplants or cuttings
When to plant
After frost
Spacing
Allow room for airflow
Containers vs ground
Containers improve drainage
Companion planting
Thyme
Oregano
Sage
Lavender
Grow Guide Resources
Rosemary plants
Containers
Garden scissors
Hand trowel
Watering can
Plant markers
Ongoing Care (Including Fertilizer)
Water deeply but infrequently
Prune lightly
Avoid heavy fertilizing
Pests & Problems
Root rot
Powdery mildew
Occasional insects under stress
Harvesting Rosemary
Harvest anytime once established
Take no more than one-third
Cut above green growth
Using & Preserving Rosemary
Fresh cooking
Drying
Freezing
Freeze-drying
How to Preserve Herbs
How to Store Freeze Dried Herbs
Coming Soon: Recipe using rosemary
Gardener’s Notes
Rosemary grows best with minimal care. Too much water is the most common problem.
