Rosemary 50 Seeds

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, syn. Rosmarinus officinalis) is a classic evergreen Mediterranean herb with slender, needle-like leaves and a warm, piney, resinous aroma. Its bold, slightly peppery flavour is a kitchen staple for roasted meats, potatoes, breads and infused oils, while its upright, aromatic habit makes it equally valued as an ornamental and pollinator plant. Native to the Mediterranean basin, it is naturally drought-tolerant and well suited to Egyptian conditions.

Planting

Rosemary is slow and tricky from seed, so sow extra and be patient. Scatter seed on the surface and press it in, covering only lightly to about 0.3 cm, since light aids germination. Keep at 18-21 degC; seedlings emerge in roughly 14-21 days. In Egypt, sow in nursery trays in autumn (October-November) or late winter (February), avoiding the hot May-September window. Grow in full sun in light, well-drained sandy soil at pH 6.5-7.0. Pot seedlings on once they have about 4 true leaves, then transplant out after frost, spacing perennial plants 60-90 cm apart (at least 45 cm).

Fertilizing

Plants in the ground generally need no feeding, and rich feeding only produces soft, disease-prone growth. From the second year, container plants benefit from a light sprinkling of general-purpose granular feed once in late spring or early summer.

Care

Water regularly to keep the root ball moist during the first year, then water minimally once the plant is established and drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogging, which triggers root and crown rot. Ensure sharp drainage and good air movement to prevent powdery mildew, and watch for rosemary beetle, leafhoppers, scale and spittlebugs. Cut leaves any time; new growth has the best flavour. Trim lightly after flowering, but never cut into bare old wood.