Rosemary
perennial-season crop
At a glance
| Suitable zone groups | Perennial in zones 7-8 and 9-10; in zones 3-4 and 5-6, grow in containers brought indoors in winter |
|---|---|
| Planting window | See the guide text below, in general terms relative to your last spring frost |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-draining, sandy soil |
| Watering | Moderate watering, avoid wet roots |
About this plant
Rosemary is a fragrant herb with firm stems and narrow leaves. It is perennial in zones 7-8 and 9-10; in zones 3-4 and 5-6, grow it in containers brought indoors in winter. Choose full sun.
Plant rosemary in well-draining, sandy soil. Water moderately and avoid wet roots, making sure excess water can drain freely from a container.
Common beginner failures and fixes
- Roots stay wet and growth declines: Improve drainage, empty standing water from saucers and water moderately.
- Indoor growth becomes weak and stretched: Provide the sunniest suitable indoor position when bringing the container inside for winter.
- A container plant is left outdoors through winter in colder zones: Bring it indoors for winter in zones 3-4 and 5-6.
- Pruned branches remain bare: Harvest leafy tips and leave healthy foliage below each cut.
Beginner checklist
- Check whether your zone calls for perennial outdoor growing or winter indoors.
- Use a movable container in zones 3-4 and 5-6.
- Provide full sun.
- Plant in well-draining, sandy soil.
- Water moderately and avoid wet roots.
Zone groups and planting windows here are general guidance. Confirm your own zone and last frost date locally before planting.