How to Grow Rosemary

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

Rosemary is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions rosemary can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the rosemary page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Tuscan Blue, Vigorous upright culinary type (garden centers)
• Arp, More cold-hardy for North Florida (garden centers)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 60 cm (24 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 3 L per plant every 4 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 25cm+.

Pests & problems

In humid regions, Root rot and Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Rosemary is usually ready to harvest in about 6 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant rosemary where you garden.

See also: Rosemary in the plant library →

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