Rosemary, Anthos
‘Rosemary’ thrives in loamy or sandy, slightly-acidic, well-drained soil. This plant requires a minimum of six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Purchased nursery transplants can be planted in spring, after the last frost, at the same soil depth they were in the previous container. Transplants should be spaced two to four feet from other plants to permit adequate air circulation. The addition of compost is beneficial at the time of planting. ‘Rosemary’ can be propagated from several-inch-long cuttings, taken in the fall, then pressed into moist growing medium. Established roots may also be divided and transplanted. The plant can be layered by lowering a branch to the ground and anchoring it until new roots develop. While this plant can be propagated by seed, germination is slow and less reliable than other methods.
‘Rosemary’ thrives in well-drained, evenly moist, but never soggy or water-logged soil. The plant should be watered every one or two weeks in the heat of summer, allowing the top few inches of the soil to dry between each watering. ‘Rosemary’ suffers when winter temperatures drop below thirty degrees Fahrenheit and may need to be covered or brought indoors for protection.
‘Rosemary’ does not require fertilizer, other than the addition of compost at the time of planting, and can be harmed from over-fertilization.
Prune as needed to maintain plant shape during spring and summer, up to 4-6 weeks before first frost. Use sharp, clean shears to avoid ragged cuts that could leave plant exposed to disease. If looking to reduce overall size of plant, cut back 1/3 of plant, wait 2-3 months and then cut back additional 1/3, as desired. If you desire a bushier plant, cut off the top 1-2 inches to encourage branch to split.
This plant prefers poor, dry, rocky, infertile soil, and excellent soil drainage is essential for the prevention of fungal disease. Aphids or mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soap, if necessary, making sure to read and carefully follow the directions on the product label.
