How to Grow Rosemary in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

How to Grow Rosemary in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

Rosemary is a fragrant, evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and a rich, piney flavor. Widely used in Mediterranean cooking, rosemary is perfect for seasoning meats, potatoes, and breads. Growing rosemary in February gives you an early start to establish strong plants, ensuring a productive and healthy herb garden throughout the year.

This guide provides everything you need to know about growing rosemary successfully in February, including the best varieties, planting tips, care advice, and harvesting techniques.

Introduction: Why Grow Rosemary in February?

Rosemary is a hardy perennial herb that thrives in warm, sunny conditions and well-drained soil. Starting rosemary indoors in February allows you to get a head start on the growing season, especially in cooler climates. Once established, rosemary is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and provides fresh, aromatic leaves year-round.

Whether you’re growing rosemary in containers, raised beds, or your garden, this versatile herb is a valuable addition to any home garden.

1. Choosing the Best Rosemary Varieties

There are several rosemary varieties to choose from, each with unique growth habits, flavors, and ornamental features. Here are some popular options:

1.1 Upright Varieties

‘Arp’: A hardy variety with a strong flavor, ideal for cooler climates.
‘Tuscan Blue’: Known for its vibrant blue flowers and robust growth.
‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’: A tall variety with dense, flavorful leaves.

1.2 Creeping Varieties

‘Prostrate Rosemary’: A trailing variety perfect for containers, hanging baskets, or ground cover.
‘Huntington Carpet’: Features low-growing foliage and pale blue flowers.

1.3 Decorative Varieties

‘Golden Rain’: A striking variety with variegated green and gold leaves.
‘Blue Boy’: A compact, ornamental rosemary ideal for small gardens or patios.

2. Sowing Rosemary in February

2.1 Where to Sow

Rosemary seeds can be sown indoors in seed trays or pots to protect them from the cold.
Use a sunny windowsill, greenhouse, or heated propagator to provide warmth and light.

2.2 Seed Sowing Process

Fill seed trays or small pots with seed-starting compost.
Sprinkle rosemary seeds thinly on the surface and press them lightly into the soil (do not cover, as they need light to germinate).
Water gently to moisten the soil.
Place trays in a warm spot with a consistent temperature of 20–25°C.

2.3 Germination Time

Rosemary seeds are slow to germinate and may take 14–28 days under optimal conditions.

3. Growing On and Transplanting

3.1 Potting On

Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or larger containers.

3.2 Providing Light

Rosemary requires full sun to thrive. Place pots on a bright windowsill or under grow lights for 12–16 hours a day.

3.3 Hardening Off

Before moving rosemary outdoors, harden off plants by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days.

3.4 Final Planting

Transplant rosemary into garden beds, raised beds, or containers when the risk of frost has passed.
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for good airflow and growth.

4. Caring for Rosemary

4.1 Watering

Rosemary prefers dry to moderately moist soil. Allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings.
Avoid overwatering, as rosemary is highly drought-tolerant once established.

4.2 Feeding

Rosemary is a light feeder and generally does not require heavy fertilization.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season if needed.

4.3 Pruning and Harvesting

Prune rosemary regularly to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming woody.
Harvest leaves as needed, and trim stems after flowering to encourage new growth.

4.4 Overwintering

In colder climates, bring rosemary indoors or protect it with mulch during the winter.

5. Common Pests and Diseases

5.1 Pests

Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybirds.
Spider Mites: Use neem oil or increase humidity around the plants to deter infestations.

5.2 Diseases

Root Rot: Prevent by planting rosemary in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Powdery Mildew: Ensure good airflow and avoid overcrowding plants to prevent fungal issues.

6. Harvesting Rosemary

6.1 When to Harvest

Rosemary can be harvested as soon as the plant is established, usually 8–10 weeks after sowing.

6.2 How to Harvest

Use scissors to snip stems as needed, leaving enough foliage for the plant to continue growing.

6.3 Storing Rosemary

Fresh rosemary can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks in a damp paper towel.
For longer storage, dry rosemary by hanging small bunches upside down in a cool, dark place.
Rosemary can also be frozen whole or chopped in ice cube trays with water or oil.

7. Growing Rosemary in Containers

Rosemary thrives in containers, making it a great option for patios, balconies, or small gardens.

Use pots with good drainage and at least 12 inches deep.
Combine rosemary with other Mediterranean herbs like thyme, sage, or oregano for a mixed herb planter.

8. Benefits of Growing Rosemary

Culinary Uses: Perfect for seasoning meats, breads, soups, and marinades.
Health Benefits: Known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-boosting properties.
Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant and easy to grow in a variety of conditions.
Pollinator-Friendly: Rosemary flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects.
Decorative Appeal: Adds beauty and fragrance to gardens and containers year-round.

Conclusion: Start Growing Rosemary for a Flavorful and Aromatic Herb Garden

Growing rosemary in February is an excellent way to get a head start on your herb garden. With its ease of care, culinary versatility, and year-round appeal, rosemary is a valuable addition to any gardener’s collection. Whether you’re growing classic upright varieties or experimenting with trailing types, you’ll enjoy a productive and fragrant herb garden.

Happy gardening! 🌱