|
Rosemary
Common name for Rosmarinus officinalis, a hardy
evergreen sub-shrub grown chiefly for its aromatic leaves
which are used in culinary seasoning and which yield an oil
once used in medicine. Small light blue flowers are borne in
April or May, in loose clusters that spring from the leaf
axils. The foliage is white and woolly on the under side and
dark and shiny above. Plants can grow to a height of 6 feet
and last for years if given winter protection.
Rosemary prefers dry, well-drained soil and in the South and
Pacific Coast States, where soil is dry and rocky, they are
planted as hedges. There is also a low-growing or prostrate
variety. |
|
Rosemary grows well with occasional watering, and does much
better where the soil is alkaline. All varieties prefer full
sun and most can tolerate slightly shady areas.
Rosemary propagates easily by taking six inch long stem
cuttings that are stuck in a mixture of sand, loam, and leaf
mold, ideally in a controlled environment such as a
greenhouse or cold frame.
Growing Rosemary
Growing Cultures
Outdoors, containers, hydroponics.
Plant Height
Rosemary plants grow to a height of 36 to 48 inches (90 - 120cm).
Plant Spacing
Rosemary plants should be spaced 18 to 24 inches (45 - 60cm)
apart.
Preferred pH Range
Rosemary will grow in a pH range between 6.0 (mildly acidic) and
8.5 (alkaline) with a preferred range between 6.0 and 7.5.
Propagation
Sow indoors in sunny location or under plant grow lights
eight weeks before last frost. Rosemary propagates well via
stem cuttings.
Seed Germination Period
15 to 25 days.
Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)
1,000.
Soil Requirements
Light and well-draining.
Alternative Growing Media
Soilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco
peat, Oasis foam.
Time From Seed to Saleable Plant
Sow in seed flats 22 weeks before sale in 10cm diameter pots.
Seeds to finished plugs, 12 weeks; plugs to saleable plants,
10 weeks.
Sun & Lighting Requirements
Rosemary grown outdoors prefers full sun.
Chives will grow indoors satisfactorily under
standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under
high output fluorescent ,
compact fluorescent, or
high intensity discharge (metal halide or high pressure
sodium) plant growing lights. Keep standard fluorescent
lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants,
high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot
above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above
the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan
gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to
stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.
USDA Hardiness
7a to 10b.
Water Requirements
Average water needs. Water on a regular schedule, do not
overwater.
Potential Pests & Diseases
Whitefly, scale, mealybug. Powdery mildew.
Special Notes
Drought tolerant, suitable for xeriscaping. Rosemary is
known to attract bees, butterflies and birds. Fragrant
flowers. Suitable for containers. |
Florida
Backyard Vegetable Gardener 
