Where to plant rosemary in the garden?

Rosemary is an evergreen aromatic shrub from the Mediterranean region. Its fragrant sprigs suit many dishes, while its flowers attract pollinators. A suitable position matters more than intensive maintenance.

Choose sun and good drainage

Give rosemary a sunny, sheltered spot where excess water can drain away. Wet winter soil can cause problems. Hardiness varies with the variety and location, so do not assume every plant can withstand severe frost.

Spring planting suits cold or wet areas. Autumn can also work in mild climates. Leave space for the mature shrub, or use a container with drainage holes if the garden soil stays too wet.

Pruning and propagation

After flowering, trim young shoots if needed, keeping cuts within leafy growth where possible. Old bare wood is less likely to regrow. You can propagate rosemary from cuttings or by layering: bend a flexible branch down, secure a section against the soil and leave its tip exposed. Separate it only when enough roots have developed.

Place suitable young cuttings in an airy growing medium and avoid waterlogging. Growing from seed is also possible but takes patience.

Suitable neighbours

Thyme, lavender and savory also appreciate sun and freely draining soil. Group plants by their needs rather than relying on rosemary to repel insects or slugs.

Using rosemary in the kitchen

Use fresh sprigs to flavour vegetables, grilled dishes and stews, or dry or freeze them. Add a sprig to oil during cooking; this is not advice to store fresh herbs in oil for long periods. Use flowers only from a correctly identified, unsprayed plant.