Rosemary has grown along Mediterranean hillsides for centuries, valued for its needle-like leaves, resinous fragrance, and steady place in kitchens, gardens, and household traditions. Its scent carries notes of pine, citrus, and warm earth, and a single sprig can flavor bread, potatoes, beans, roasted vegetables, meat, and savory sauces.
In the garden, rosemary forms a woody evergreen shrub where winters are mild. In colder regions, it is often grown in containers and brought indoors before hard frost. Its pale blue flowers are especially welcome to bees, while the aromatic foliage offers a useful harvest through much of the year.
Growing Guide
Timing
Start rosemary indoors about 10–12 weeks before the expected last spring frost. Germination is naturally slow and uneven, so an early start gives seedlings time to develop before warm weather arrives.
Transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and nights are reliably mild. In colder climates, grow rosemary in a container that can be moved indoors before fall frost. In mild-winter areas, young plants may also be set out in early fall so roots can establish before cooler weather.
Sowing & Starting
Sow seeds shallowly on the surface of moist seed-starting mix and cover only lightly. Keep the mix warm and evenly moist, but not soggy. Germination may take three to six weeks or longer, and not every seed will sprout.
Provide strong light and good airflow once seedlings emerge. Move young plants into individual pots as they grow, then harden them gradually before transplanting. Space plants about 18–36 inches apart, depending on the variety and mature size.
Rosemary also grows well in containers, provided the pot has excellent drainage and enough room for the roots to develop.
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