When to Plant and Harvest Rosemary
Woody, aromatic Mediterranean herb with needle-like leaves, drought tolerant
Winter survival: Will it survive winter? Most rosemary is outdoor-hardy about zones 8 to 10; hardy cultivars may hold in zone 7. Colder zones: bring the plant indoors. Set your zone in the live app for a zone-specific line.
Pets: Non-toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA). ASPCA entry. Pet-Safe Garden Finder
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.
Related Planting Guides
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 15 to June 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 2 | May 10 to June 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 3 | May 1 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 4 | April 20 to May 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 5 | April 15 to May 25 | Spring only |
| Zone 6 | April 10 to May 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 8 | March 20 to May 10 | Spring only |
| 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 | Year-round |
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
Check any pair, and see which pairings have research behind them, on the Companion Planting Desk.
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
Track picks and rate the season on the Harvest Log.
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.
How long does Rosemary take to grow?
Rosemary is typically ready to harvest in about 80 days under good conditions. Use the harvest signs below rather than the calendar alone.
How do I know when to harvest Rosemary?
Harvest Rosemary when 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