Growing Rosemary From Cuttings is one of the best ways to have a fresh supply of this flavorful herb all year round!
Rosemary can be used in several dishes, from roasts to cocktails, and adds a unique flavor to your meal or drinks, making it a must have herbs in homes and garden!
Don’t Miss These Top Secrets of Growing the Bushier Rosemary
Benefits of Growing Rosemary From Cuttings
Growing Rosemary from cuttings has a lot of added benefits. Not only does it keep the same DNA as the mother plant, but also retains the same flavor, growth habits, and resilience to certain diseases.
- Saves Money: Propagating rosemary from cuttings is an economical way than buying starter plants from a nursery.
- Can Be Done At Home Easily: Taking rosemary cuttings is a relatively simple process that even novice gardeners can do!
- You Can Grow many Plants: By taking several cuttings from a single plant, you can quickly build up an entire rosemary garden with minimal effort.
- Grow and Gift: You can share rosemary plants with your friends and family or even trade cuttings with other gardeners.
Growing Rosemary From Cuttings
The process of growing Rosemary from cuttings is quite simple and effortless. The best time to do it is from late spring to early summer as it offers warm temperatures and long daylight hours, which minimizes the risk of stress for cuttings.
It would be a good idea to take softwood cuttings – as they are still in their active growing stage, they have a higher metabolic and cellular activity, which automatically guarantees success, thanks to the rapid cell development and elongation – all this plays a key role in essential root development.
Take 4-6 inches long cutting and dip the cut end in honey or aloe (They’re good rooting hormones) and plant it in a pot with a good seed starting mix.
Moisten the soil and keep it in bright indirect light, and let it grow. In about 10-15 days, the cutting will root and start growing into a new rosemary plant.
Note: You also have the option to grow the cuttings in water. Place the cutting in a jar filled with non chlorinated water and change the it every 2-4 days. Once you see roots emerging, transplant them into a pot.
How To Care For Rosemary When It Is Propagating
Location and Light Requirements
When the cuttings are still in the initial stages of their growth, make sure they are away from direct sunlight – it will save the tender new growth from scorching or drying out.
Once the cutting establishes itself, you can gradually start keeping it in direct sunlight (3-4 hours of mild morning sunlight). After a month or two, start exposing it to about 6-7 hours of light daily, avoiding harsh midday sun.
Watering Tips
During the initial stages, when the cutting has not formed the roots, avoid pouring water directly in the soil from a jug or a glass, as it can disturb its placement. So, how to do it correctly you may ask? Well, using a spray bottle is the best!
Simply moisten the growing medium, using the spray bottle, once in every 3-4 days or whenever it feels a little dry to the touch at the surface (Using RO water is best at this stage).
Do not mist the soil daily as it will attract root rot. The best time to water the cutting is in the morning – it gives it ample time to absorb the moisture, and also allows the foliage to go dry in the morning sun, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Pests and Diseases
Insects such as whiteflies, spittle flies, aphids, and spider mites are very attracted to the Rosemary plant. They can usually cause the plant to wilt very quickly, so keeping a regular eye on the herb can prevent this from happening. Use neem oil or soap solution to get rid of them.
Another aspect that Rosemary is highly susceptible to is powdery mildew or mold. This happens mainly if there is air circulation or ventilation around. Keep the herb in an open space where it gets a lot of fresh air.
