Rosemary Planting Guide
Woody, aromatic Mediterranean herb with needle-like leaves, drought tolerant
Best Time and Place to Plant Rosemary
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Rosemary in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 90F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 36 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 15 to June 15 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 10 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 1 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | April 20 to May 30 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 15 to May 25 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 10 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | March 20 to May 10 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 10 to May 1 | August 1 to September 15 |
| Zone 10 | February 15 to April 15 | August 15 to October 1 |
| Zone 11 | January 15 to March 15 | September 1 to November 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to March 1 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 24 inches apart, 36 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 60F to 90F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water every 1-2 weeks once established; excellent drought tolerance
- Days to harvest: 80
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Light feeding once in spring
- Compost organic: Light 1 inch dressing in spring
Companion Plants
- Beans
- Brassicas
- Sage
- Carrots
Avoid Planting Near
- Mint
- Basil
Harvest Signs
- Harvest soft new growth tips — 4-6 inches of stem
- Never harvest more than 1/3 of the plant
- Can harvest year-round in mild climates
- Most flavorful just before flowering
FAQs
When should I plant Rosemary?
Rosemary planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Rosemary?
The best time of year to plant Rosemary is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 60F to 90F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Rosemary?
Plant Rosemary in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 90F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 36 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Rosemary?
Plant Rosemary about 24 inches apart, with rows around 36 inches apart.
What grows well with Rosemary?
Rosemary is commonly paired with Beans, Brassicas, Sage, Carrots.