ROSEMARY

     Organic Rosemary

        50 Seeds Pack   

Rosemary is a hardy perennial shrub that typically reaches a height of about 1 meter (3.3 feet), although some plants can grow as tall as 2 meters (6.6 feet). Its narrow, linear leaves are approximately 1cm (0.4 inch) long and resemble small, curved pine needles. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green and glossy, while the underside is white with curled edges. The plant produces small bluish flowers clustered in the leaf axils, which are highly attractive to bees. Rosemary's fragrance is intensely pungent, with a bitter, astringent, pine-like flavour. When fully mature, it displays white or blue two-lipped flowers that bloom at the tips of the stems. Typically, rosemary is harvested before it begins to flower.

PLANTING & GROWING

Rosemary is a versatile and aromatic herb that can be grown in containers, making it ideal for balcony gardens or indoors near a sunny window. Before planting, soak the seeds for several hours or overnight, and disinfect any reused pots or trays to prevent damping off when starting seeds indoors. Easy to grow and pest-resistant, rosemary is also popular in landscaping due to its drought tolerance and attractive appearance.

Young plants are sensitive to wet soil in winter, so it’s recommended to grow rosemary in containers for the first couple of years before transferring it to the garden. To maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming woody, prune the plant annually and mulch in autumn with leaf mould, compost, or manure. Rosemary thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of light daily, though it can tolerate partial shade. For indoor growth during winter, adequate sunlight is especially important.

This evergreen herb is adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions and moderately drought-tolerant. While overwatering should be avoided, it’s crucial to ensure the roots don’t dry out completely. Water thoroughly when the topsoil becomes dry, and monitor for wilting or sagging branches, which indicate water stress.

Sow seeds about 3mm deep, spacing plants at least 45cm (18 inches) apart. Harvest leaves and stems any time after about 85 days from germination. For smaller harvests, snip the tips of the branches.

Rosemary pairs well with companion plants such as parsnips, sage, parsley, oregano, marjoram, thyme, tarragon, marigolds, calendula, sweet alyssum, and lavender. It also benefits main season crops like tomatoes, peppers, onions, beans, and cucumbers when planted nearby, although their soil needs differ.