Materials Needed:
Rosemary twigs (cuttings) or seeds
Small pots for cuttings
Larger pots for mature plants (with drainage holes)
Well-draining potting mix (with sand or perlite)
Rooting hormone (optional for cuttings)
Watering can or spray bottle
Clear plastic bag or plastic dome (for cuttings)
Organic fertilizer
Growing Rosemary from Cuttings
1. Select and Prepare Cuttings:
Choose healthy, non-flowering stems (4-6 inches).
Strip leaves from the bottom 2 inches.
(Optional) Dip cut ends in rooting hormone.
2. Plant Cuttings:
Fill small pots with well-draining mix.
Insert cuttings 1-2 inches deep.
Water soil gently.
3. Create Humid Environment:
Cover pots with clear plastic bags or domes.
Place in bright, indirect light.
4. Care for Cuttings:
Keep soil moist, not waterlogged; mist if dry.
Check for roots after 4-6 weeks.
Transplant rooted cuttings into larger pots.
5. Transplant and Ongoing Care:
Use larger pots with well-draining mix.
Place in sunny location (6-8 hours of sunlight).
Water when top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
Growing Rosemary from Seeds
6. Prepare and Sow Seeds:
Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost.
Fill trays or pots with seed-starting mix.
Sprinkle seeds, cover lightly with soil (¼ inch deep), mist gently.
7. Germination:
Place in warm, bright location or under grow lights.
Keep soil moist, not soggy.
Germination takes 2-4 weeks.
8. Transplant Seedlings:
Transplant seedlings with true leaves into larger pots with well-draining mix.
Place in sunny location.
9. Care for Seedlings and Mature Plants:
Water when top inch of soil is dry.
Ensure 6-8 hours of sunlight.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.
Tips for Success:
Provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Avoid over-misting; prefer dry conditions.
Maintain temperatures above 40°F (4°C).
Monitor for pests and treat naturally if needed.