How to Grow Rosemary
Perennial, Rosemarinus Offinalis
With thin, dark green leaves and pale blue flowers, Rosemary is a popular
and attractive herb. It is an evergreen shrub that grows 3-6 feet tall.
Rosemary is a member of the mint family. It grow wild in the Mediterranean
region. It is a perennial in warm areas. But, it is susceptible to frost
and therefore, is grown as an annual in many parts of the country.
Young plants can be grown like houseplants until they get big. Then, move
them outside to their permanent summer home. They will look and grow well
in your garden, along the house, or in big containers.
Propagation:
Rosemary are grown from seed. The seed is hard to start. Soak the seeds in
water a few hours before planting. We recommend starting it indoors on
propagation mats to improve germination success. Start them indoors six weeks
before the last frost. If you want to grow and enjoy them as houseplants,
start them indoors even earlier. After they sprout, place them in a warm,
sunny window.
When transplanting outdoors, space plants three feet or more apart. In warm
areas where there is no frost or freezes, pick a place where you want it
to grow for many years.
How to Grow Rosemary Shrubs:
Rosemary are very easy to grow evergreen shrubs. They prefer full sun to
partial shade. They will do well in almost any soil. They tolerate dry soil
conditions and drought. They should not require water during droughts, but
add water if they appear to wilt. They usually do not require fertilizer.
Once your Rosemary reaches a couple of feet, don't hesitate to bring out
the shears and shape it. Be creative if you dare!
Harvest leaves and use fresh, as needed, in the summer. As autumn arrives,
pick leaves in the morning when the oils are at their peak. Spread leaves
out to dry in a cool, well ventilated area. Or, pick and freeze immediately.
Main Cooking Uses:
The leaves are used fresh, dried, or frozen in many recipes. It commonly
is used on meats (beef, chicken, ribs), stews, sauces, and soups.
Brew some fresh Rosemary in tea, adding a few fresh or dried leaves.
Medicinal/Other Uses:
Rosemary has been used to treat both stomach aches and headaches. It is also
believed to aid in memory retention. I'm personally going to give this a
try. Now, if I can only remember where I stored my Rosemary......
The oil of Rosemary is used in perfumes and cosmetics. It has also been used
as a moth repellent.
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