Growing rosemary in a pot

Which varieties to grow in pots?

All rosemary varieties can be grown in pots, knowing that the varieties ‘Prostratus’ and ‘Pointe du Raz’, two ground-cover rosemaries, will tend to escape from the pot.

When and how to plant it?

• Rosemary is planted in March-April, preferably after the frosts, or in autumn, in September-October.
• Mediterranean rock garden plant, rosemary thrives especially in the dry regions of the south, in a sunny location and in well-draining soil, as it does not like moisture.
• Choose a pot large enough, with a diameter of at least 30 cm
• Place a thick layer of gravel or clay balls at the bottom of the pot, to achieve well-draining soil.
• Fill with potting soil, then plant the rosemary, topping up with the remaining potting soil. Firm the soil down.
• Water the soil without overdoing it.
• Position the pot in full sun and preferably sheltered from the wind.

What maintenance?

Watering

• Water rosemary occasionally and moderately during the first year. Ensure that the substrate dries well between waterings and that there is no standing water in the saucer. In subsequent years, water only in case of prolonged drought.
• Signs of insufficient watering for rosemary include wilted and brown leaves.
• As rosemary prefers poor soils, there is no need to provide fertiliser.

Wintering

In regions where winter is cold (below -10°C), it is best to bring your pot indoors, in a bright and unheated location, and then take it out in spring when severe frosts are no longer a concern.

Pruning

• If you wish to shape it, for example into a ball, you can lightly prune your rosemary after flowering.
• Only cut branches that are on green and soft wood, as old wood does not regenerate when cut.
• Avoid pruning your rosemary during frost periods.

Harvesting

For harvesting foliage, cut young branches preferably before flowering, as they are more tender and fragrant at this time.

Resistance to Diseases

Rosemary is a resilient plant, not very susceptible to diseases and insects. The only issues that may affect it are: a fungus, the phytophthora, which appears in cases of excessive humidity, and rosemary beetles, small beetles that lay eggs on the branches but are harmless to the plant.

Discover our collection of rosemary!

Pots of herbs placed in the sun

To go further

• Find all our rosemary varieties.
• Discover our tips to prevent and treat rosemary diseases and parasitic issues.
• Here’s a small selection of drought-resistant perennials, perfect for gardens without watering!
• Explore our selection of 15 medicinal plants with numerous benefits… to grow in your garden!