How to Grow a Rosemary Tree

Grow your own rosemary.

A Rosemary tree is a large shrub that produces fragrant foliage that is used in cooking as well as for medicinal purposes. Herbalists have long used rosemary to treat depression, muscle spasms, headaches, and several other illnesses. It is known as an antiseptic and an astringent. Fresh rosemary used in meats and vegetables provides a unique flavor to dishes. Rosemary is easily propagated by rooting cuttings taken from an existing tree.

Things You'll Need

• Rosemary tree
• Soil
• Water

Instructions

1. Plant the rosemary tree in a location that will receive full sun for all or most of the day. The soil will need to be loose and drain easily. Adding peat moss or other organic compost will help soil that is less than ideal.

2. Place a thin layer of mulch or pine needles around the base of the tree in a wide circle.

3. Water the tree deeply once a week to keep the soil constantly moist. Increase watering during drought conditions.

4. Fertilize only if the tree is not thriving with a general purpose formula. Too much fertilizer will rob the tree of fragrance and discourage blooming.

5. Cut small sections of stem and leaves to harvest the rosemary and repeat the planting process. Do not harvest more than 20 percent of the tree at one time. Harvesting can be done at any time of the year.

Tips & Warnings

• If the temperature in your area drops below 27 degrees during winter, it is best to either keep your rosemary tree indoors or grow it in a container outdoors so that it can be moved indoors when the temperature is too cold.

References

• WSU Island County: Rosemary
• Texas Cooperative Extension: Caring for your Rosemary Tree