Rosemary Seeds
Place the seed onto a well drained base such as sand, vermiculite or very light potting mix. Cover the seed with a little more mix, water lightly and place the container in a warm location or onto a heat mat. Cover the container with plastic wrap until you see the seeds starting to emerge. As soon as you see the tiny rosemary plants starting to grow, it is important to give them a good light source and a warm environment. Do not expect germination of all the seeds as rosemary has a much lower germination rate than some other popular herbs such as basil. Allow the rosemary to grow inside or in a sheltered area outside, until they are about 3 inches (7 cm) high and sturdy enough to handle. If the weather is warm outside, the seedlings can be put into the garden where they will continue to grow. Alternately, pot the seedlings into larger pots so that you do not have to disturb them if you want to bring them indoors for next winter.
Rosemary is commonly used in the kitchen as a flavoring. The spicy, aromatic leaves can be used fresh or dried in many dishes. Rosemary is a woody, evergreen perennial herb that can be grown as an annual. Rosemary grows best in warmer climates; it is a Mediterranean region native. In cold winter regions, grow rosemary indoors as a potted annual. Rosemary grows as a shrub and can vary in growth habit from low-growing, rounded and spreading to stiff and upright to 6 feet (15 cm) tall. Rosemary stems become woody and rugged-looking with age. Branches tend to sweep outward and upward. Grow rosemary in full sun. Rosemary grows best in light, well-drained soil. Add aged compost to the planting bed ahead of planting. Rosemary will endure poor soil as long as it is well-drained. Rosemary prefers a soil pH of 6.5 to 7.0. rosemary is not winter hardy so it has to be treated as an annual or you have to bring the herb inside for the winter and try to keep it alive – which is not easy. The seed takes a while to germinate so you need to start it about three months before the warm weather arrives. Rosemary has a mild camphor flavor. When used to excess, rosemary will have an acrid taste. Add a small amount then adjust to taste. Use fresh or dried leaves. Toss rosemary stems on the coals to flavor barbeques just before the meat is finished; the smoke will impart rosemary flavor to the meat. Use stems as a brush to apply barbecue sauce to chicken. Wrap sprigs in a clean towel; they will stay fresh in the refrigerator crisper for as long as 2 weeks. Rosemary can be dried for storing by setting the leaves on a screen or drying tray in a shady, warm place. Gather bunches and hang them upside down in a cool, shady place. Rosemary leaves can be frozen in a freezer bag. Store dried rosemary leaves in an airtight container out of sunlight.
