Profile

Rosmarinus tomentosusRosmarinus tomentosus

Rosemary (Rosmarinus tomentosus) is an evergreen, aromatic subshrub native to the Mediterranean region. It prefers sunny, well-draining locations and is frost-sensitive in colder climates. The plant is valued for its fragrant, needle-like leaves, used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. Propagation is usually done by cuttings, as seed germination is difficult. Rosemary requires little water and nutrients, but waterlogging must be strictly avoided. Regular pruning promotes bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming too woody. In colder regions, frost protection is necessary during winter.

Rosmarinus tomentosus (Rosmarinus tomentosus): plant portrait for plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest Jan, Feb
Rosmarinus tomentosus: plant portrait. harvest: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Quick profile

Key data

Planting

May, Jun

Harvest

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Water

low

Good neighbors

CarrotBeanCabbageStrawberry

Growing data

Rosmarinus tomentosus Growing data

Plant spacing

40 - 60 cm

Row spacing

50 - 70 cm

Sowing and germination

Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorNo
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo
Direct sowing possibleNo
Pre-culture recommendedNo

Planting and spacing

Plant spacing40 - 60 cm
Row spacing50 - 70 cm
Plants per m²2 - 4 per m²
Bed widthfrom 60 cm
Spacing1 plant per 2-3 squares

Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 15 °C
Optimal temperature20 - 25 °C
Frost sensitiveYes
Late frost sensitiveYes
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancelow

Water, nutrients and care

Waterlow
Critical water phasesEstablishment phase after planting
Watering methodSoaking
Droughtlow
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedNo
Nutrient needlight_feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 10 l; Recommended: from 20 l; Diameter: from 25 cm; Depth: from 20 cm
SupportNo
Height50 - 150 cm
Width50 - 100 cm

Year plan

Rosmarinus tomentosus Calendar

All plants
Indoor sowingDirect sowingPlantingHarvest

Indoor sowing

No data

Rosemary is not typically grown from seed due to difficult and slow germination. Cuttings are the preferred method.

Direct sowing

No data

Direct sowing is not common for rosemary.

Planting

MayJun

Plant young plants outdoors after the last frosts, when there is no longer any risk of frost.

Harvest

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Harvesting can be done year-round, using the leaves and young shoots. Harvest in summer and autumn for best quality.

Year plan
  1. Plant young plants outdoors
  2. First harvest of young shoots
  3. Water regularly
  4. Prune if necessary
  5. Continue harvesting
  6. Check for pests and diseases
  7. Continue harvesting
  8. Prune if necessary
  9. Continue harvesting
  10. Prepare plants for winter
  11. Harvest young shoots
  12. Frost protection
  13. Harvest older shoots
  14. Protection from severe frost
  15. Harvest older shoots
  16. Protection from severe frost

Growing

Rosmarinus tomentosus Site, soil and care

Spacing

40 - 60 cm

Storage

Fresh, Dried, Frozen

Rosemary is an easy-care herb but requires specific conditions. Pay attention to: * **Location:** Full sun is ideal. Partial shade is tolerated but results in less aroma. * **Soil:** Excellent drainage is extremely important. Waterlogging quickly leads to root rot. Mix in sand or gravel if necessary. * **Watering:** Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out well between waterings. Water even more sparingly in winter. * **Fertilizing:** Rosemary is a light feeder. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing is harmful. * **Pruning:** Regular harvesting and pruning in spring keep the plant compact and encourage new growth. Woody stems can be cut back hard in spring. * **Overwintering:** Often hardy in mild regions. In colder zones, the plant needs protection (fleece, mulch) or to be overwintered frost-free (cool, bright room). * **Propagation:** Cuttings are the easiest method. In early summer, take about 10-15 cm long, semi-hardwood cuttings and plant them in moist soil.

Pruning

Rosmarinus tomentosus Pruning

renewal_pruning

Goal

renewal_pruning

Pruning timing

spring

MarAprMay

Main pruning for shaping and encouraging growth after winter After the last frost, before strong growth begins. Remove dead shoots and trim the plant to maintain a compact shape.

summer

JunJulAug

Light pruning for harvesting and encouraging bushy growth Regular harvesting and pinching of shoot tips promotes branching and new leaf production. Remove spent flower stalks.

autumn

SepOct

Preparation for winter, removal of overhanging shoots Light trimming can help keep the plant compact and minimize damage from snow or wind. Avoid heavy pruning.

Remove

  • Dead, diseased, or damaged shoots
  • Overly long or drooping shoots that detract from the shape
  • Shoots growing inwards that impede air circulation
  • Spent flower stalks to prevent seed production and direct energy into vegetative growth

Preserve

  • Healthy, vigorous shoots
  • Young, green shoots for harvesting
  • The basic shape of the shrub

Avoid

  • Drastic cutting back into old wood unless necessary for rejuvenation
  • Pruning during periods of severe frost
  • Removing more than one-third of the plant at once, unless it is dead material

Tools and hygiene

Always use clean and sharp tools (secateurs, knife) to prevent disease transmission and ensure clean cuts.

Companion guide

Rosmarinus tomentosus Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

CarrotBeanCabbageStrawberry

Health

Pests, Diseases

Pests

Aphids

Small, green or black insects that colonize young shoots and leaves, sucking plant sap.

Spider mites

Tiny mites that leave fine webs on leaves and suck plant sap, especially in dry weather.

Mealybugs

Small, whitish, cottony insects that hide in leaf axils and on shoots, sucking plant sap.

Diseases

Root rot

Caused by fungi (e.g., Phytophthora, Pythium) that thrive in waterlogged conditions and destroy the roots.

Leaf spot

Fungal disease characterized by spots on the leaves.

Deficiencies

Iron deficiency

Yellowing of young leaves, while the veins remain green (chlorosis).

Magnesium deficiency

Yellowing between the leaf veins, starting on older leaves.

Plant health

FAQ

How often should I water rosemary?

Rosemary requires little water. Water only when the top layer of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging at all costs.

Can I leave rosemary outside in winter?

In mild regions, rosemary is often hardy. However, in colder climates, it needs protection (e.g., with fleece or mulch) or to be overwintered frost-free indoors.

Why is my rosemary turning yellow?

Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, waterlogging, nutrient deficiency (especially iron), or insufficient sunlight. Check soil moisture and location.

How and when should I prune rosemary?

Prune in spring after the last frost to maintain shape and encourage growth. Regular harvesting and pinching of shoot tips in summer promotes bushy growth. Remove dead or diseased shoots at any time.

Related plants

common sage

Same family

Both belong to the Lamiaceae family.

Mint

Same family

Both belong to the Lamiaceae family.

Thymus

Same crop groupSimilar nutrient needsSimilar water needs

Both are Mediterranean aromatic herbs.

Both are light feeders and need little fertilizer.

Oregano

Same crop group

Both are Mediterranean aromatic herbs.

Lavandula

Similar nutrient needsSimilar water needs

Both prefer poor soils and need little fertilizer.

Both are drought-tolerant and need well-drained soil.

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-15

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-15

  3. PlantNet species data

    PlantNet · 2026-05-15

Details

More public plant data

Names
Common

Rosmarinus tomentosus

Plural

Rosmarinus tomentosus

BotanicalRosmarinus tomentosus
Botanical authorHub.-Mor. & Maire
Synonyms
Common synonyms
Regional names
Historical names
Market names
Misspellings
Search terms
  1. Rosmarinus tomentosus
Taxonomy
KingdomPlantae
Clades
  1. Tracheophytes
  2. Angiosperms
  3. Eudicots
  4. Asterids
OrderLamiales
Family botanicalLamiaceae
Family

Mint family

Family idlamiaceae
GenusRosmarinus
SpeciesRosmarinus tomentosus
Hybrid statusnot_hybrid
Classification
Main groupHerb
Sub groupCulinary Herb
Crop groupAromatic
Life cyclePerennial
Perennialyes
Woodyyes
Treeno
Shrubyes
Edible parts
  1. Leaves
  2. Stems
Calendar
Sowing indoor
Notes

Rosemary is not typically grown from seed due to difficult and slow germination. Cuttings are the preferred method.

Sowing outdoor
Notes

Direct sowing is not common for rosemary.

Planting out
Months
  1. 5
  2. 6
Earliest month5
Latest month6
Notes

Plant young plants outdoors after the last frosts, when there is no longer any risk of frost.

Harvest
Months
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8
  9. 9
  10. 10
  11. 11
  12. 12
Earliest month1
Latest month12
Notes

Harvesting can be done year-round, using the leaves and young shoots. Harvest in summer and autumn for best quality.

Month tasks
5
  1. Plant young plants outdoors

  2. First harvest of young shoots

6
  1. Water regularly

  2. Prune if necessary

7
  1. Continue harvesting

  2. Check for pests and diseases

8
  1. Continue harvesting

  2. Prune if necessary

9
  1. Continue harvesting

  2. Prepare plants for winter

10
  1. Harvest young shoots

  2. Frost protection

11
  1. Harvest older shoots

  2. Protection from severe frost

12
  1. Harvest older shoots

  2. Protection from severe frost

Month tasks structured
5
  1. TaskPlanting out
    Label

    Plant young plants outdoors

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 5
    ConditionNo frost risk
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Wait until the risk of night frost has completely passed.

  2. TaskHarvest
    Label

    First harvest of young shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    ConditionPlants established
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully to avoid hindering growth.

6
  1. TaskWatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    ConditionDry weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Especially important in warm and dry weather. Avoid waterlogging.

  2. TaskPruning
    Label

    Prune if necessary

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 6
    ConditionTo encourage bushy growth
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Remove spent flower stalks and trim the plant to maintain a compact shape.

7
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 7
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest regularly to encourage the production of new leaves.

  2. TaskPest and disease control
    Label

    Check for pests and diseases

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 7
    ConditionWarm weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Watch out for aphids or spider mites, especially in dry weather.

8
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 8
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest as needed.

  2. TaskPruning
    Label

    Prune if necessary

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 8
    ConditionTo maintain shape
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Light pruning can encourage bushy growth.

9
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest before the plant goes into winter dormancy.

  2. TaskWinter preparation
    Label

    Prepare plants for winter

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    ConditionAutumn approaching
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Protect the plant from severe frost, especially in colder regions.

10
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest young shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 10
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest young shoots as long as the weather is mild.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Frost protection

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 10
    ConditionFrost expected
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Bring frost-sensitive plants indoors or protect them with fleece or mulch.

11
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest older shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully to avoid damaging the plant.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Protection from severe frost

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 11
    ConditionCold weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Ensure the plant is adequately protected from frost.

12
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest older shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 12
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully if the weather permits.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Protection from severe frost

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 12
    ConditionCold weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    The plant still needs protection from extreme temperatures during winter.

Book content
Overview

Rosemary (Rosmarinus tomentosus) is an evergreen, aromatic subshrub native to the Mediterranean region. It prefers sunny, well-draining locations and is frost-sensitive in colder climates. The plant is valued for its fragrant, needle-like leaves, used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. Propagation is usually done by cuttings, as seed germination is difficult. Rosemary requires little water and nutrients, but waterlogging must be strictly avoided. Regular pruning promotes bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming too woody. In colder regions, frost protection is necessary during winter.

Structured month tasks
5
  1. TaskPlanting out
    Label

    Plant young plants outdoors

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 5
    ConditionNo frost risk
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Wait until the risk of night frost has completely passed.

  2. TaskHarvest
    Label

    First harvest of young shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    ConditionPlants established
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully to avoid hindering growth.

6
  1. TaskWatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    ConditionDry weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Especially important in warm and dry weather. Avoid waterlogging.

  2. TaskPruning
    Label

    Prune if necessary

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 6
    ConditionTo encourage bushy growth
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Remove spent flower stalks and trim the plant to maintain a compact shape.

7
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 7
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest regularly to encourage the production of new leaves.

  2. TaskPest and disease control
    Label

    Check for pests and diseases

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 7
    ConditionWarm weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Watch out for aphids or spider mites, especially in dry weather.

8
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 8
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest as needed.

  2. TaskPruning
    Label

    Prune if necessary

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 8
    ConditionTo maintain shape
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Light pruning can encourage bushy growth.

9
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Continue harvesting

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    ConditionPlants growing well
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Harvest before the plant goes into winter dormancy.

  2. TaskWinter preparation
    Label

    Prepare plants for winter

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    ConditionAutumn approaching
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Protect the plant from severe frost, especially in colder regions.

10
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest young shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 10
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest young shoots as long as the weather is mild.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Frost protection

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 10
    ConditionFrost expected
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Bring frost-sensitive plants indoors or protect them with fleece or mulch.

11
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest older shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully to avoid damaging the plant.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Protection from severe frost

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 11
    ConditionCold weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    Ensure the plant is adequately protected from frost.

12
  1. TaskHarvest
    Label

    Harvest older shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 12
    ConditionMild weather
    Estimated effortlow
    Notes

    Harvest carefully if the weather permits.

  2. TaskWinter protection
    Label

    Protection from severe frost

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 12
    ConditionCold weather
    Estimated effortmedium
    Notes

    The plant still needs protection from extreme temperatures during winter.

Cultivation specs
Seed
Light germinatorno
Dark germinatorno
Cold germinatorno
Stratification neededno
Pre soaking recommendedno
Direct sowing possibleno
Pre culture recommendedno
Spacing
Plant spacing cm min.40
Plant spacing cm max.60
Row spacing cm min.50
Row spacing cm max.70
Recommended density per sqm min.2
Recommended density per sqm max.4
Min. bed width60 cm
Square foot gardening spacing1 plant per 2-3 squares
Spacing notes

Rosemary develops into a bushy shrub and requires ample space.

Growth dimensions
Height cm min.50
Height cm max.150
Width cm min.50
Width cm max.100
Growth speedmedium
Final size notes

Can vary significantly depending on variety and location. Older plants can become very large.

Temperature
Min. growing temperature15 °C
Optimal temperature c min.20
Optimal temperature c max.25
Max. heat tolerance35 °C
Frost sensitiveyes
Late frost sensitiveyes
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancelow
Temperature notes

Rosemary is frost-sensitive and should be protected or overwintered frost-free in colder regions.

Water
Water needlow
Critical water phases
  1. Establishment phase after planting
Drought tolerantyes
Drought sensitivitylow
Waterlogging sensitiveyes
Mulching recommendedno
Water notes

Absolutely avoid waterlogging, as this leads to root rot. Well-draining soil is crucial.

Nutrition
Nutrient grouplight_feeder
Heavy feederno
Medium feederno
Light feederyes
Nitrogen needlow
Phosphorus needlow
Potassium needlow
Calcium needlow
Magnesium needlow
Compost recommendedyes
Mulching recommendedno
Fertilizer sensitivitylow
Nutrition notes

Rosemary requires little fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can impair the aroma. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient.

Container
Container suitableyes
Min. pot volume10 l
Recommended pot volume20 l
Min. pot depth20 cm
Min. pot diameter25 cm
Plants per container min.1
Plants per container max.1
Drainage requiredyes
Repotting neededyes
Container notes

Choose a sufficiently large pot with good drainage. Overwinter frost-free indoors.

Support
Needs supportno
Support recommendedno
Climbingno
Viningno
Trellis recommendedno
Training requiredno
Support notes

Rosemary generally does not require support, but can be lightly staked if very bushy or exposed to wind.

Cultivation modes
Outdoor bed suitableyes
Raised bed suitableyes
Container suitableyes
Balcony suitableyes
Greenhouse suitableyes
Polytunnel suitableyes
Indoor suitableyes
Windowsill suitableyes
Hydroponic possibleno
Permaculture suitableyes
No dig suitableyes
Yield density
Yield unitharvest
Yield reliabilitymedium
Yield notes

Yield depends on plant size and care. Regular harvesting promotes yield.

Site
Location

Sunny to partial shade

Exposure

Sheltered

Soil type

Herb bed, rock garden, container

Notes

Prefers a warm, sunny, and well-ventilated location. Protection from cold east winds in winter is beneficial.

Soil
Soil texture

Well-draining, sandy-loam to loam

Soil pH

Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0 - 7.5)

Soil fertility

Poor to normal

Notes

Good drainage is crucial. Absolutely avoid waterlogging. Improve heavy clay soil with sand.

Watering
Frequency

Moderate, more frequent during drought

Method

Deeply, at the root zone

Notes

Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging at all costs.

Nutrition
Fertilizer type

Organic, herb fertilizer

Frequency

Spring (lightly)

Notes

Rosemary is a light feeder. Over-fertilizing can negatively affect the aroma. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient.

Cultivation planning
Succession sowing
Possibleno
Bed planning notes

Rosemary requires a sunny location and well-draining soil. In colder regions, a sheltered spot or container cultivation is recommended.

Rotation prioritylow
Interplanting potentialmedium
Mechanization relevancelow
Crop rotation

Rosemary is a perennial herb and has no specific crop rotation requirements. It can be replanted after almost any crop, provided the soil is well-drained.

Deficiencies
Iron deficiency
Slugiron_deficiency
Name

Iron deficiency

Description

Yellowing of young leaves, while the veins remain green (chlorosis).

Symptoms
  1. Interveinal chlorosis on young leaves
  2. Slowed growth
Management
  1. Check and adjust soil pH (more acidic)
  2. Apply chelated iron
Organic control
  1. Chelated iron
  2. Soil amendment
Prevention
  1. Maintain optimal soil pH
  2. Ensure good soil structure
Magnesium deficiency
Slugmagnesium_deficiency
Name

Magnesium deficiency

Description

Yellowing between the leaf veins, starting on older leaves.

Symptoms
  1. Interveinal chlorosis on older leaves
  2. Red or purple discoloration may occur
Management
  1. Spray Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) on leaves or incorporate into soil
Organic control
  1. Epsom salts
Prevention
  1. Ensure adequate magnesium in the soil
  2. Avoid excessive potassium fertilization
Problems
Overwatering
Slugoverwatering
Name

Overwatering

Description

Watering too frequently or too heavily, leading to waterlogging and root rot.

Symptoms
  1. Wilting leaves despite moist soil
  2. Yellowing
  3. Root rot
Management
  1. Reduce watering frequency
  2. Check soil for good drainage
  3. Avoid waterlogging
Organic control
  1. Adjust watering schedule
  2. Improve drainage
Prevention
  1. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry
  2. Ensure pots have drainage holes
Poor drainage
Slugpoor_drainage
Name

Poor drainage

Description

The soil retains water for too long, leading to root rot and oxygen deprivation for the roots.

Symptoms
  1. Waterlogged soil
  2. Wilting plants
  3. Root rot
Management
  1. Amend soil with sand, perlite, or compost
  2. Ensure drainage holes are clear for container plants
  3. Use raised beds
Organic control
  1. Soil amendment
  2. Raised beds
Prevention
  1. Choose well-draining soil mixes
  2. Avoid compacting the soil
Insufficient sunlight
Sluginsufficient_sunlight
Name

Insufficient sunlight

Description

Rosemary requires ample sunlight. Insufficient light leads to weak growth and reduced aroma.

Symptoms
  1. Leggy, weak growth
  2. Pale leaves
  3. Reduced aroma
  4. No or few flowers
Management
  1. Move the plant to a sunnier location
  2. Change the location for container plants
Organic control
  1. Relocate plant
Prevention
  1. Choose a sunny location from the start
Problem management
Common pest groups
  1. Sucking insects (aphids, spider mites, mealybugs)
Common disease groups
  1. Fungal diseases (root rot, leaf spot)
Prevention principles
  1. Optimal site selection (sunny, well-draining)
  2. Avoidance of waterlogging
  3. Adequate air circulation
  4. Use of healthy plant material
  5. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases
Diagnosis notes

Observe specific symptoms such as leaf discoloration, wilting, or visible pests. The combination of symptoms and site conditions aids in diagnosis.

Disease graph
Scopeplant_diseases
Profiles
  1. Slugroot_rot
    Severityhigh
    Conditions
    1. Waterlogging
    2. Poor drainage
    3. Overwatering
    Affected parts
    1. Roots
    2. Entire plant
    Prevention
    1. Ensure well-draining soil
    2. Avoid waterlogging
    3. Water only when needed
    Organic control
    1. Soil improvement
    2. Adjusted watering
  2. Slugleaf_spot
    Severitymedium
    Conditions
    1. High humidity
    2. Poor air circulation
    3. Wet leaves overnight
    Affected parts
    1. Leaves
    Prevention
    1. Good air circulation
    2. Avoid overhead watering
    3. Remove infected leaves
    Organic control
    1. Removal of infected leaves
    2. Copper preparations (if needed)
Diagnostic rules
  1. Symptom

    Wilting leaves despite moist soil

    Possible causes
    1. root_rot
    2. overwatering
    First checks
    1. Check soil moisture
    2. Examine roots for rot
  2. Symptom

    Yellowing of young leaves, veins remain green

    Possible causes
    1. iron_deficiency
    First checks
    1. Check soil pH
    2. Look for signs of pests
  3. Symptom

    Sticky leaves and visible small insects on shoots

    Possible causes
    1. aphids
    2. mealybugs
    First checks
    1. Identify insects
    2. Examine affected areas
Prevention strategy
Cultural
  1. Ensure excellent drainage by amending soil or using raised beds.
  2. Provide a sunny location with good air circulation.
  3. Water only when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
  4. Avoid overcrowding plants.
Monitoring
  1. Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests (e.g., aphids, spider mites) and diseases (e.g., leaf spots, wilting).
  2. Check soil moisture levels frequently.
Organic first response
  1. For pests: Water spray, insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduction of beneficial insects.
  2. For diseases: Remove infected parts, improve air circulation, and ensure proper watering.
Notes

Prevention is key to keeping rosemary healthy. Good cultural practices minimize the risk of problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing problems in rosemary requires careful observation of symptoms and environmental conditions. Look for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. The combination of wilting, leaf discoloration, and soil moisture often provides initial clues.

Phenology
Stages
  1. Germination (if sown)
  2. Growth
  3. Flowering
  4. Fruiting
  5. Winter dormancy
Notes

Rosemary is an evergreen subshrub that can grow year-round under suitable conditions. Flowering typically occurs in spring and summer.

Harvest
  1. Leaves
  2. Young shoots
Harvest details
Harvest frequency

Continuously during the growing season, as needed

Harvest indicators
  1. Young, aromatic shoots
  2. Leaves
Post harvest handling

Use fresh, dry, or freeze. For drying, hang branches upside down in a airy, shaded location.

Storage
  1. Fresh
  2. Dried
  3. Frozen
Storage details
General storage category

Cool and dry

Storage life

Dried: several months; Frozen: up to 6 months; Fresh: a few days

Processing options
  1. Drying
  2. Freezing
  3. Infusing in oil or vinegar
Kitchen usage

Rosemary is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine, especially with meat dishes (lamb, pork, poultry), potatoes, stews, and bread. Its intense aroma pairs well with savory foods. The needles can be used fresh or dried.

Safety and edibility
Edible parts
  1. Leaves
  2. Young shoots
Inedible or caution parts
Toxicity notes

Rosemary is safe in normal culinary amounts for most people. Large quantities may cause stomach upset in sensitive individuals. Pregnant women should limit consumption.

Raw consumption

The leaves can be consumed raw, but are often very intense in flavor. They are usually used cooked or roasted.

Seed saving

Seed production is possible with rosemary, but germination is often difficult and slow. Propagation by cuttings is more common.

Seed saving advanced

If seeds are collected, harvest the seed heads after flowering when they begin to dry. Seeds are small and light-sensitive, with often low germination rates. Isolation from other Rosmarinus species or varieties is necessary for true-to-type seeds if they are flowering nearby.

Woody crop details
Rootstock relevancenot_applicable
Renewal pruning relevancehigh
Notes

Rosemary is a robust subshrub that benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent woodiness.

Ecology
Pollinator valuemedium
Wildlife valuelow
Biodiversity notes

While not primarily cultivated for local biodiversity, its flowers can attract insects like bees and butterflies. As an evergreen, it also provides some structure in winter.

Practical notes

Rosemary is an easy-care herb but requires specific conditions. Pay attention to: * **Location:** Full sun is ideal. Partial shade is tolerated but results in less aroma. * **Soil:** Excellent drainage is extremely important. Waterlogging quickly leads to root rot. Mix in sand or gravel if necessary. * **Watering:** Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out well between waterings. Water even more sparingly in winter. * **Fertilizing:** Rosemary is a light feeder. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing is harmful. * **Pruning:** Regular harvesting and pruning in spring keep the plant compact and encourage new growth. Woody stems can be cut back hard in spring. * **Overwintering:** Often hardy in mild regions. In colder zones, the plant needs protection (fleece, mulch) or to be overwintered frost-free (cool, bright room). * **Propagation:** Cuttings are the easiest method. In early summer, take about 10-15 cm long, semi-hardwood cuttings and plant them in moist soil.

Seasonal content
Spring
Title

Spring: New Beginnings and Pruning

Content

After winter, spring is the ideal time for the main pruning of rosemary. Remove dead shoots and trim the plant back to encourage bushy growth. If planting new plants, do so after the last frosts. A light application of compost supports the start of the new growing season.

Tasks
  1. Hauptschnitt
  2. Pflanzen/Umtopfen
  3. Leichte Düngung
Summer
Title

Summer: Harvesting and Care

Content

Summer is harvest time for rosemary. Regularly cut young shoots to branch the plant and obtain a continuous supply of fresh herbs. Ensure adequate, but not excessive, watering, especially in hot weather. Check for pests.

Tasks
  1. Regelmäßige Ernte
  2. Bewässerung nach Bedarf
  3. Schädlingskontrolle
Autumn
Title

Autumn: Preparing for Winter

Content

In autumn, you should prepare the plant for winter. In colder regions, now is the time to take protective measures or overwinter the plant frost-free. Light pruning can help maintain shape and minimize damage from snow.

Tasks
  1. Winterschutz
  2. Leichter Rückschnitt
  3. Ernte fortsetzen
Winter
Title

Winter: Dormancy and Protection

Content

Rosemary rests in winter, especially in colder climates. Protect it from severe frost. If overwintering indoors, a bright, cool location is ideal. Water very sparingly.

Tasks
  1. Frostschutz
  2. Sparsame Bewässerung
  3. Heller Standort (bei Überwinterung im Haus)