DescriptionRosemary is native to the Hot, Dry, & Sunny Coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s name is thought to derive from the Latin Rosmarinus meaning, “Dew of the Sea”. Rosemary grows best exposed to plenty of sunlight in well-drained soil. Rosemary has a wide-range uses! Cooking: Use it to infuse Olive Oils, Butter, Spreads, Dips, and Dressings! Rosemary’s rustic flavor pairs perfectly with potatoes, breads, pasta, and soups. It enhances the flavor of meats (especially poultry, steak and fish) like no other. Landscaping: Rosemary can grow to a maximum height of 6 feet This means that it makes a perfect landscaping bush or topiary. Homeowners will often trim the rosemary bush into elegant shapes. Dry/Saving: Rosemary that has been dried can be saved for years and the herb’s flavor intensifies over time.Tips for Growing Rosemary in Georgia:Seed Starting: Begin the rosemary growing process by starting seeds indoors approximately 8-10 weeks before the last anticipated frost. Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep in a well-draining mix, keeping them moist until germination occurs, usually within 14-21 days.Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them either into larger pots or directly into the garden. Allow 2 to 3 feet of space between individual rosemary plants.Soil & Sun: Choose a well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH for optimal growth. Sandy loam soil is particularly suitable for rosemary. Position the plants in a location that receives full sunlight, ensuring they get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.Spacing: When planting rosemary in the garden, ensure proper spacing of 2 to 3 feet between individual plants. This allows for adequate air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases.Watering: Maintain consistent moisture for rosemary, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once the plants are established, they exhibit good drought tolerance.Fertilization: Rosemary generally does not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer sparingly, as the plant prefers lean conditions. Apply fertilizer in spring, avoiding excessive nitrogen, which can result in leggy growth.Harvesting: Harvest rosemary leaves once the plant reaches a height of at least 6 inches. Pinch or snip the leaves, avoiding excessive pruning that may harm the plant. Harvest in the morning for the best flavor. These considerations for seed starting, transplanting, soil and sun requirements, spacing, watering, fertilization, and harvesting will guide successful rosemary cultivation in your garden.Sun Exposure: Full Sun (at least 6 hours of Sunlight)Frost Tolerant?: Yes (Survives Temperatures 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit)Heirloom?: YesDays Until Harvest/Maturity: 80-100 DaysPlanting Depth: No more than 1/8″Distance Between Rows: 24 inchesDistance Between Plants: 12 to 36 inchesRecommended Planting Dates:Do not feel restricted to planting exclusively within the following date ranges. These dates are only a recommendation for best results based upon our experience, research, & best practices. Thyme is a Perennial in Southern and Coastal Georgia. This means that it will stay alive throughout Winter in many cases.North Georgia: April 1 through October 31 Suggested Planting Window (Starting Seeds & Transplants): April 1 through August 15Central Georgia: March 15 through November 30 Suggested Planting Window (Starting Seeds & Transplants): March 15 through September 1South Georgia: March 10 through November 30Suggested Planting Window (Starting Seeds & Transplants): March 10 through September 1Coastal Georgia: February 15 through December 25Suggested Planting Window (Starting Seeds & Transplants): February 15 through September 1What’s my Georgia Growing Region? Click Here.
