How to grow rosemary in pots from a twig or from seeds

Growing rosemary in pots is an excellent way to enjoy this aromatic herb, either for cooking or as an ornamental plant. Here’s a simplified guide for cultivating rosemary both from cuttings and seeds:

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:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Selecting and Preparing the Cuttings:
   • Choose healthy, non-flowering rosemary stems about 4-6 inches long.
   • Strip the lower 2 inches of leaves from the cutting.
   • (Optional) Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote faster rooting.
2. Planting the Cuttings:
   • Fill small pots with a well-draining potting mix (with sand or perlite).
   • Insert the cut end of each cutting about 1-2 inches deep into the soil.
   • Water the soil gently until evenly moist.
3. Creating a Humid Environment:
   • Cover each pot with a clear plastic bag or dome to retain humidity.
   • Place pots in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
4. Caring for the Cuttings:
   • Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mist the plants if the air is dry.
   • After 4-6 weeks, gently tug the cuttings to check for root development.
5. Transplanting and Ongoing Care:
   • Once rooted, transplant the cuttings into larger pots with a well-draining potting mix.
   • Place the pots in a sunny spot (6-8 hours of sunlight per day).
   • Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
   • Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Growing Rosemary from Seeds:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Seed Preparation and Sowing:
   • Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
   • Fill seed trays or small pots with seed-starting mix.
   • Sprinkle rosemary seeds on the surface, cover lightly with ¼ inch of soil, and mist gently.
2. Germination:
   • Place the trays or pots in a warm, bright area, or use grow lights.
   • Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering.
   • Germination can take 2-4 weeks.
3. Transplanting Seedlings:
   • Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them into larger pots filled with well-draining potting mix.
   • Position the pots in a sunny spot.
4. Caring for Seedlings and Mature Plants:
   • Water when the top inch of soil dries out.
   • Ensure the plants receive 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
   • Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
   • Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth.

Tips for Success:

• Light: Rosemary thrives in 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: Rosemary prefers drier conditions, so avoid over-misting.
• Temperature: Keep plants above 40°F (4°C); they don’t tolerate frost well.
• Pests: Watch out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Treat with natural pest control solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.