Rosemary-Part I

This is propagated from seeds and cuttings taken in the spring after flowering is over. These will likely root in water. Layering is also used. Seeds will sometimes germinate within two to three weeks, but they can take up to a month. The ideal temperature for germination is between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination rates can be as low as fifty per cent, so sow more than you expect to need.

When grown outdoors, rosemary is typically a pest-free plant. Indoors, it could have typical houseplant pests. Generally, insecticidal soap can be used to combat aphids and spider mites. Mealy bugs can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Usually, diseases are more of a problem in greenhouses and other areas with humid conditions. In such situations, it can get mildew and other fungal problems.

In the landscape, rosemary is used as a border plant and accent plant as well as a topiary and espalier. It can be trained as a hedge and as a standard. Due to its flexible branches, this is easy to train. Low growing cultivars are suitable for rock gardens, and are used to cascade over stone walls. One of the most versatile of plants, these can be planted several feet apart as ground covers and hedges. Rosemary is suited to low maintenance landscapes and xeriscapes, since they are so drought resistant.

When needed, rosemary can be pruned back after flowering to keep the plants compact.

As a container plant, rosemary is very popular as a topiary standard since its branches are so flexible.

Choose a suitable spot in the landscape, and don't expect to move this once it is established. Rosemary resents being transplanted.

The name rosemary is derived from the Latin word ros, which means dew, and marinus, in reference to the sea. From this, you can pretty much tell that it will do well in coastal gardens.

Commercially, rosemary is grown mostly in Spain, France, and Italy.

Rosemary can be harvested year-round. If you are harvesting from outdoor plants, the best time to do this is early in the morning after the dew has dried.

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