Rosemary is a woody evergreen herb grown for its aromatic edible leaves. In warmer weather they are grown as perennial plants. It has a needle shaped leaves and can also be grown as ornamental plants. Scientific name of Rosemary is Rosmarinus officinalis. This brief overview will help you to grow and care for rosemary in your garden.
Planting: It is best to start with cuttings or a nursery grown plant. Rosemary seeds can be difficult to germinate (I have never started from seed). Rosemary is a slow growing plant and will take time to spread out.
Care: Rosemary thrives well under sun, so select a sunny spot where it will get six to eight hours of sunlight. Rosemary doesn’t need much water, it can withstand some degree of drought. Rosemary can’t withstand cold weather, so its wise to bring the plants indoors. Or take a couple of cuttings and plant them in a small pot to encourage root growth to enjoy in the next season.
Harvest: The leaves can be harvested any time when the plant is big enough. Cut the twigs then remove the leaves. Once the plant attains maturity it will bloom. For best flavor, collect the leaves before bloom. The bees love the bloom.
Usage: Rosemary leaves are used in seasoning fresh or dried.They can also be used as ornamental plants and can be used in flower arrangements. The leaves can be dried and stored in airtight container for future use. The leaves can also be infused in oil.
My experience: I grew store bought rosemary saplings in window sill container. Over a period of a season they grew profuseley and gave an abundant yield. I ended up collecting the dried leaves and stored them for future use.
Here is my rosemary plants basking in the bright sun.
Do share your experience growing Rosemary in the comments below.
