Rosemary

Growing tips

Conditions of germination:

• depth of sowing: 2 mm
• optimal temperature for germination: 20 to 30ºC
• time for germination: 14 to 28 days
• although optional, cold treatment (stratification) facilitates germination and increases the germination rate. There are several methods of stratification. Here is one: sow the seeds in moist potting soil, cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a plastic container to prevent it from drying out. Place in the refrigerator for 2 to 6 weeks, checking a few times that the soil is still moist. Then take out the pot and expose the seeds to the above germination temperatures.

When to sow:

• indoor sowing 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date in your area

Sowing technique: in pocket

Inside the same hole, sow 3 to 5 seeds spaced 1 to 2 cm apart; when the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have reached a height of 5 cm, keep all the seedlings if space is available or keep only the most beautiful ones. Transplant into individual containers while waiting for transplanting in the garden.

Transplant outdoors:

• after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed

Distance in the garden:

• between plants: 50 cm
• between rows: 75 cm

Height of plants: 60-90 cm (less in the first year and more in the following years according to the harvests)

Soil: well-drained, rather poor

Exposure: full sun

Days to harvest: 80 to 90 days

Specificities:

• the use of a bottom heat mat can improve germination (after the cold stratification if applicable);
• Rosemary grows well in pots;
• this perennial plant is known to live 15 to 20 years