Growing Rosemary

Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis, is a hardy evergreen sub shrub. Growing rosemary is an activity that dates back through time. Well-known for its aromatic leaves, which are used for seasoning food. Rosemary oil can also be used for medicinal purposes. The herb has a dark and glossy feel to the leaf, with a white, woolly underside. It has been known to grow in excess of 6 feet tall, and can survive for years if protected from extreme elements.

Its lovely name, rosemary, is from Latin, meaning ‘dew of the sea.’ Rosemary is very aesthetically pleasing, and kind to the eye. In the spring, the plant puts on a display of delicate blooms in colors from pale to dark blue. Rosemary is known for its longevity. This perennial will last for decades with only minimal care.

Records from ancient history shows it was believed to contain powers to strengthen memory. Recent studies have found that rosemary contains blockers that prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. This is a brain chemical, which is involved in memory function. Amazingly, this knowledge was known amongst humans so far back in time, yet it is only in the present that this claim has been proven.

An ideal time for growing rosemary is springtime. The best method of propagating rosemary is by taking cuttings. Use 6” cuttings from the stem, and remove the leaves around 2” from the bottom. Push the stems into a compost mix. Cover the rosemary with a clear plastic bag to retain heat. A temperature of 60°F to 70°F is needed for the cuttings to root.

After the rosemary has routed, it can then be re-planted in the garden. (usually around eight weeks).The rosemary should be planted in direct sunlight, but is ok with slight shade.

When growing rosemary in containers, be sure the container has sufficient drainage. Line the container to ensure the drain holes do not become plugged.

The ideal space for growing rosemary is to place the plants two feet apart. Rosemary prefers dry, well-drained soil, and grows extremely well with only occasional watering. The plant performs even better, where the soil is alkaline. You can increase the pH level in the earth by adding lime.

Most soil types are suitable for growing rosemary, providing it doesn’t become waterlogged. To make sure of no water logging, add sand to the soil mixture. Areas with a small amount of rainfall per year is actually beneficial for this type of herb.

Water only when the compost is dried out and feed once a month with liquid fertilizer from spring until fall. When growing rosemary, you catch a break from the usual thirsty plants in the garden. To harvest Rosemary simply cut the stems with a sharp knife.

Growing Rosemary and cooking

Rosemary has short, pointy leaves a lot like pine needles. They can be clipped off to add a delicious flavor to different meals. Sprigs or whole stems can be added to meats in the roasting pan.

Tips for Growing Rosemary.

Growing rosemary near cabbages and beans will repel moths and beetles.

The aroma from rosemary tends to attract all sorts of nature to the garden, like bees, butterflies and birds.

Rosemary medical uses

Rosemary can be used for pain relief, medicine for nervous disorders, and stomach ailments. The organic compounds contained within the herb may even prevent cancer, by inhibiting toxic carcinogens.

Growing rosemary is for the savvy gardener who wants year round delight from the garden without a lot of fuss. Kind of like a happy marriage. You’ll definitely be pleased with the results of growing rosemary.