How to grow Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
An evergreen shrub of piney flavor.
Rosemary is a woody evergreen that loves sun and dry soil and hates cold, wet winters. In cold regions grow it in a pot and bring it in; elsewhere it becomes a fragrant shrub.
Grow Rosemary with step-by-step help for your exact yard.
Start free in Seededly →Rosemary at a glance
| Sun | Full sun |
|---|---|
| Soil pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Spacing | 24 in |
| Harvest | Pick anytime |
| Plant | Spring |
| Note | Tender to hard frost |
How to grow Rosemary, step by step
Sun & drainage
- Full sun and very well-drained soil; it rots in wet ground.
- In cold zones grow in a pot to shelter over winter.
Water lightly
- Let it dry between waterings; it is drought-tough once established.
- No heavy feeding.
Harvest year-round
- Snip sprigs anytime — it’s evergreen.
- Light trims keep it shapely; avoid cutting into old bare wood.
Rosemary problems & fixes
Rosemary — Plant dies over winter: what's wrong and how do I fix it?
Cold and wet. Grow in a pot and shelter; ensure sharp drainage.
Rosemary — Powdery mildew indoors: what's wrong and how do I fix it?
Poor airflow. Give it light and a fan; don’t crowd.
Rosemary — Yellowing needles: what's wrong and how do I fix it?
Overwatering. Let it dry out more between drinks.
Recommended rosemary varieties
- Tuscan Blue — Upright. Vigorous, upright, great flavor.
- Arp — Cold-hardy. The hardiest - best where winters bite.
- Prostrate — Trailing. Cascades over pots and walls.
Rosemary month-by-month
| January | Evergreen — shelter in cold. |
|---|---|
| February | Indoor pots near light. |
| March | Set out as cold passes. |
| April | New growth; blue flowers. |
| May | Harvest freely. |
| June | Strong growth. |
| July | Drought-tough through heat. |
| August | Light trim to shape. |
| September | Fresh growth. |
| October | Bring pots in before frost. |
| November | Indoors in cold zones. |
| December | Evergreen — protect. |