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Rosemary Planting Guide

Rosemary is an aromatic evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and a piney, citrus flavor. It is a Mediterranean herb that thrives in warm, dry conditions.

Salvia rosmarinus ยท Herb ยท Lamiaceae family ยท 80โ€“180 days to maturity

Where Can You Grow Rosemary?

Rosemary Growing Regions

Click any state to see the Rosemary planting schedule for that location.

Planting Dates by Zone

Zone Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Harvest
Zone 7a โ€” โ€” Apr 1 Jun 24 โ€“ Nov 11
Zone 7b โ€” โ€” Mar 25 Jun 17 โ€“ Nov 4
Zone 8a โ€” โ€” Mar 15 Jun 7 โ€“ Oct 25
Zone 8b โ€” โ€” Mar 4 May 27 โ€“ Oct 14
Zone 9a โ€” โ€” Feb 17 May 12 โ€“ Sep 29
Zone 9b โ€” โ€” Feb 1 Apr 26 โ€“ Sep 13
Zone 10a โ€” โ€” Jan 8 Apr 2 โ€“ Aug 20
Zone 10b โ€” โ€” Jan 8 Apr 2 โ€“ Aug 20

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

Water

Low โ€” drought tolerant

Soil pH

6 โ€“ 7.5

Hardiness Zones

Zone 7a โ€“ 10b

Growing Tips

Grow in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. In cold climates, grow in containers and bring indoors for winter. Propagate from stem cuttings for faster results than seed.

Saving Rosemary Seeds

Recommended for Your Garden

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Fabric Grow Bags $10-25

Breathable fabric pots that promote healthy root growth and prevent overwatering.

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Self-Watering Planters $15-40

Built-in reservoir keeps herbs and greens consistently watered with less effort.

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Seed Starting Trays $8-20

Start seeds indoors with reusable cell trays and humidity domes.

Level Up Your Garden

Rosemary by State

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to grow Rosemary?

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) takes 80 to 180 days from planting to harvest. Exact timing depends on your variety, growing conditions, and USDA zone.

What zones can Rosemary grow in?

Rosemary can be grown in USDA zones 7a through 10b. Use the planting calendar above to find the exact dates for your zone.

How much sun does Rosemary need?

Growing Rosemary requires Full Sun (6-8+ hours), Low โ€” drought tolerant, and soil pH of 6 to 7.5.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.