Suffolk Herbs Rosemary

One of the most popular herbs, Rosemary has an evergreen shrubby habit. It prefers full sun and well drained soil and has a slow and erratic germination. It can grow to a height of 90cm.
Rosemary is the perfect partner for lamb, and makes roast potatoes even more delicious. It can also be added to olive oil and left to create the most delicious salad dressing.

Sow Inside
For reliable results in a seed tray of soil-less compost. cover with compost and glass and maintain a temperature of at least 20°C.

What to do next
When large enough prick out into a 5cm pot, gradually harden off and plant out any time from May to September. The ideal time to plant out rosemary is April. Prefers light, well drained soil in full sun. Rosemary prefers a slightly limey soil (the opposite of acid) because this results in smaller plants with more fragrant leaves. It will stand severe frosts if conditions are not windy and wet as well. Rosemary does not like to have its roots disturbed so leave as much of the root ball undisturbed as possible. Water well if the conditions are at all dry.

Harvest
Cut off portions of branches and dry in an airing cupboard. When brittle the leaves may be rubbed off into a container. The leaves can be harvested any time. Harvest no more than you can use fresh, as they loose most of their flavor when dried.