1. How to Grow Rosemary

    Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb that thrives in warm, dry climates. You can grow it from seeds, but it's much easier and faster to propagate from cuttings. It prefers sandy or loamy soil with excellent drainage. Rosemary grows slowly at first but becomes a hardy, bush-like plant over time. It's well-suited for both container growing and garden beds, especially in Mediterranean-like conditions.

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  2. Light Requirements

    Rosemary loves sunlight and needs at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. Outdoors, it should be placed in the brightest spot available. Indoors, a south-facing window or supplemental grow lights are ideal. Without enough light, rosemary becomes leggy and weak.

  3. Temperature Preferences

    Rosemary is heat-tolerant but not frost-hardy. Ideal temperatures are between 65°F and 80°F (18–27°C). In zones below USDA Zone 8, it's best to bring potted rosemary indoors during winter or grow it as an annual. Protect from freezing temperatures to avoid plant damage or death.

  4. Watering and Moisture

    Unlike many herbs, rosemary prefers dry conditions and is very drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as root rot is one of the few things that can kill rosemary.

  5. Pruning and Maintenance

    Pruning rosemary regularly keeps it bushy and productive. Start pruning when the plant reaches about 6–8 inches tall. Trim lightly throughout the growing season and more heavily after flowering. Don’t cut into the woody base—focus on green, flexible stems.

  6. Harvesting Rosemary

    You can harvest rosemary at any time once the plant is mature. Snip off sprigs using clean scissors or pruners. For best flavor, harvest in the morning after dew dries. Avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at once to prevent stress.

  7. Storing Rosemary

    Fresh rosemary can be kept in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel or upright in a glass of water. For long-term storage, rosemary dries exceptionally well while retaining most of its flavor. It can also be frozen, whole or chopped.

  8. Culinary & Medicinal Uses

    Rosemary is a popular herb in roasted meats, potatoes, bread, and Mediterranean dishes. Its piney, slightly bitter taste pairs well with robust flavors. Medicinally, it has been used to aid memory, reduce inflammation, and support digestion.

  9. Rosemary Varieties

    There are several rosemary varieties, including upright types like ‘Tuscan Blue’ and trailing ones like ‘Prostratus.’ Some are more ornamental, while others are bred for stronger aroma or cold tolerance.

  10. Common Pests & Problems

    Rosemary is generally pest-resistant, but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies—especially indoors. Powdery mildew may appear in humid conditions. Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.

  11. Growing Indoors

    Growing rosemary indoors requires strong light, preferably direct sun for several hours a day. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Rotate the pot regularly and don’t overwater.

  12. Sunburn Risk

    Rosemary is sun-hardy, but young or indoor-started plants can get scorched when moved abruptly into intense sunlight. Acclimate gradually to prevent leaf burn. In extremely hot climates, light afternoon shade can help.