Rosemary

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Press seeds lightly into the soil but do not cover as light is needed for germination. Ideal temp. 18-24°C. Germination takes 7-14 days but germination rates can be below 50% so over sow. If germination does not occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C for 4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Do not over water. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 100cm spacing.

Growing

Easy to grow aromatic, evergreen shrub. Prefers poor, well-drained soil in full sun. Can be used as a formal or informal hedge which should be trimmed after flowering.

Cultivation

Little pruning required. Prune mid to late spring removing any unwanted shoots. Do not cut back too hard or the plant will not re-grow. Whole branches can be cut and dried.