ROSEMARY (Rosemarinus officinalis)

Last Christmas I received two beautiful Rosemary topiaries in the shape of Christmas trees. I planted them in clay pots and placed them by my front door where there is plenty of sunshine. Their leaves are so aromatic that my guests feel welcome before I can even open the door. I picked up a few tips from The Southern Living Garden Book on growing Rosemary so that I can enjoy my topiaries through out the year.

Plant in full sun
Lighten heavy soil with plenty of organic matter
Provide good drainage
Little to moderate watering as too much water results in poor growth and woodiness.
Pinch the tips to control growth when plants are small.
Prune older plants frequently but lightly.
Feed just a little and not very often.

Most of all enjoy using your Rosemary leaves as a seasoning or garnish. Even the flowers are edible.

Jean Hudgins, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service

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