| Common Name | Rosemary (includes Gorizia, Barbeque, Arp, Tuscan Blue) |
| Genus | Salvia (formerly Rosmarinus) |
| Species | Salvia rosmarinus (formerly Rosmarinus officinalis) |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Life Cycle | Woody perennial in USDA Zones 7-10; grown as an annual in colder regions. |
| Tray Size | 50 (half tray) |
| Plug Care | Harden off and transplant plugs promptly into well-draining soil. Avoid both drought or waterlogged conditions while in the plug trays - any stress at this vulnerable stage will impact the plants overall success. |
| Netting / Staking | Not required; Rosemary has a naturally sturdy and upright growth habit. |
| Temperature Range | Thrives in temperatures of 65-80°F. Tolerant of heat and drought once established but sensitive to prolonged frost and freezing temperatures. |
| Spacing | Space plants 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety, to ensure adequate air circulation and growth. In areas where the plants are grown as an annual they can be spaced more closely together. In areas where they will be left to perennialize, provide more space. |
| Soil Preference | Prefers well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain too much moisture. |
| Day Length | Day-neutral; grows best in full sun with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. |
| Pinching | Regularly pinch back new growth early in the season to encourage a bushier habit and more harvestable stems. Eventually the plant will have to be left to grow long stems suitable for cutting. |
| When to Plant | Plant outdoors in spring after all chances of frost have passed and soil has warmed. In warmer zones (8+) you can plant throughout the growing season until late summer and the plants will overwinter just fine. |
| Harvesting | Harvest stems once plants are well-established and stems have reached the desired length. Cut just above a leaf node to promote regrowth. The best time to harvest is early in the day when the plants are most hydrated. |
| Post Harvest Care | Place stems in water immediately after cutting. Rosemary has a vase life of 7-10 days. Use floral preservatives or change water frequently to extend freshness. |
| Diseases / Insects | Susceptible to root rot in poorly draining soils and powdery mildew in humid conditions. Monitor for common plant pests like spider mites and aphids. |
| Bailey's Notes | Rosemary is a unique choice for adding structure, fragrance, and greenery to bouquets. Varieties like Tuscan Blue are particularly well-suited for their tall, straight stems and vibrant foliage and flowers. The varieties we offer are all unique in their own right, so be sure to research each variety prior to placing your order. |
| Resources |
North Carolina State Extension: Rosemary Growing Tips Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): Rosemary Profile |