Growing rosemary from stems is a simple and rewarding way to propagate this fragrant herb.
Growing rosemary from stems, also known as propagating from cuttings, is a practical method to create new plants. It involves taking a piece of an existing plant and encouraging it to grow roots.
Getting Your Cuttings
To begin the process, you must get a hold of some rosemary. This means obtaining healthy stem cuttings from an established rosemary plant. Look for non-flowering stems that are firm but not overly woody, typically about 4-6 inches long.
Preparing the Rosemary Sprig
Proper preparation of the cutting is crucial for successful rooting:
- Strip leaves off bottom 2″ of the rosemary sprig. Removing the leaves from the lower portion of the stem prevents them from rotting when placed in water or soil and helps the cutting focus its energy on root development.
- [Optional] Dip the stem into a growth hormone. While rosemary can root without it, applying a rooting hormone to the cut end can increase the success rate and speed up root formation.
Starting the Root Structure
This is the step where the cutting begins to form roots. You have a couple of options:
- Rooting in Water: Place the prepared cuttings in a glass or jar filled with water, ensuring the stripped section is submerged. Place the container in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
- Rooting in Soil: Plant the prepared cuttings directly into small pots filled with a well-draining potting mix or a perlite/peat moss blend. Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Keep the cuttings in a warm spot away from direct sunlight, which can scorch the tender leaves.
Waiting for Maturing Plant
Patience is key during the rooting process. Roots typically start to develop within a few weeks. The reference advises that you should wait 6-8 weeks for maturing plant. You will know the cutting is ready when you see significant root growth (in water) or feel resistance when gently tugging on the stem (in soil), indicating roots have anchored the cutting. You might also observe new leaf growth at the top.
Caring for Your New Rosemary Plant
Once your cuttings have successfully rooted and show signs of growth, it's time to care for your new rosemary plant.
- If rooted in water, carefully transplant the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil.
- Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight; rosemary thrives in full sun.
- Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as rosemary prefers drier conditions once established.
- As the plant grows, you can transplant it into a larger container or an outdoor garden bed in a suitable climate.
By following these steps, you can easily grow new rosemary plants from existing stems, expanding your supply of this versatile herb.
