Rosemary

This evergreen herb has a number of medicinal uses. Its fragrance and texture make it valuable for sachets and potpourris. In the kitchen, it is used with pork, veal, chicken, and in various vinegar concoctions. Rosemary needs some winter protection, or can be brought indoors in the north. One drawback--germination of the best seed available is only around 20%.

100 seeds

PLANTING

Rosmarinus officinalis

Tender Perennial, zones 7-9

Germination:  14-30 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF

Seed Planting Depth:  Sow on the surface, press into soil; seeds need light to germinate

Starting Indoors:  Start indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperatures for germination. Sow a few seeds per individual cell or pot or start in a 20-row tray, then transplant into larger cells/pots/containers. Transplant outside after the last frost. Growing as an annual, space 12-18”, as a perennial, 36” apart.

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing is not recommended

Growth Habit: Bushy, upright

Height and Width: 18-60 ” x 18-60” 

Spacing:  Annual- 10-12” apart, Perennial- 36” apart  

Light Needs: Full sun to part shade

Soil Needs: Loamy, well-drained. Tolerates most except clay

Flowering: Perennial bushes, spring into summer 

Harvest: Dried or fresh. Sprigs, starting when the plant is large enough, 10-12”. Drying- hang in bunches, out of direct sunlight, in a warm, well-ventilated area.  

Uses: Culinary, medicinal, ornamental, containers, attracts bees and beneficials                

Care: Rosemary does not like overwatering, high humidity, or poor air circulation. Provide good air circulation and well-drained soil. Container grown plants can be brought indoors over the winter and placed in a cool room.