Organic Rosemary

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) –

• Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
• Native Range: Africa, Asia, and Europe, particularly the Mediterranean region where it thrives in warm, dry climates
• Hardiness: Perennial in USDA zones 8 and warmer; can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors in colder climates
• Sun Requirements: Prefers full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily) for optimal growth and essential oil production
• Size: Grows as a woody, upright shrub, reaching 2'–4' tall and equally wide
• Foliage & Aroma: Features very narrow, needle-like leaves (½"–1" long) with a gray-green, evergreen appearance. Highly fragrant, exuding a spicy, pine-like aroma when brushed or crushed

When to Sow Outdoors:

• Only in mild climates (USDA zones 8 and warmer) direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after your last frost date, once the soil has warmed to at least 60°F

When to Start Indoors: (Recommended for best results)

• Start seeds 10 to 12 weeks before your average last frost date
• Maintain an ideal soil temperature of 65°–75°F to encourage better germination

Days to Emerge: 20–30 days—rosemary seeds take longer to germinate than most herbs

Light Requirements: Requires bright, indirect light when grown indoors; use a grow light if natural light is insufficient

Moisture Needs: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination—mist lightly to prevent disturbing the surface

Seed Depth: Sow seeds ⅛ inch —lightly press seeds into the soil but do not bury them, as they need light to germinate

Seed Spacing: Plant 5 seeds together in clusters in seed cells and small pots, or outdoors every 12 inches to increase the chances of establishing strong seedlings

Row Spacing: Maintain 36 inches between rows for adequate air circulation and healthy root development

Thinning: Once seedlings reach about 1 inch tall, thin to one strong plant per 12-inch space. For perennial rosemary, allow 36 inches between mature plants to accommodate its woody, shrub-like growth

Days to Maturity: Fully matures in 180 days, though young sprigs can be harvested earlier

Drought Tolerant Once Established: Requires well-draining soil and should not be overwatered—allow soil to dry out between watering

Best Growth in Containers: Ideal for pots and raised beds, especially in regions with cold winters. Can be brought indoors and grown as a year-round culinary herb

NOTE: Rosemary has a naturally slow and selective germination process, so planting a few extra seeds helps ensure a good number of strong seedlings. With a little patience and the right conditions, seedlings will develop into hardy, long-lasting perennial plants that thrive for years

Get the most out of your rosemary with our Rosemary Grow Guide—packed with expert tips and step-by-step instructions for a thriving herb garden!

We believe in the power of fresh, homegrown food—and we stand behind every seed, kit, and product we offer. That’s why we back everything with our Full-Year Grow Guarantee.

If your seeds don’t sprout, your plants don’t thrive, or you’re just not completely happy with your purchase, we’ll replace it or refund it—no questions asked.