Learn how to propagate rosemary with this simple step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Take stem cuttings.
Snip 3- to 6-inch-long cuttings from healthy rosemary stems using sharp,clean garden shearsor scissors.
Credit:Brie Williams
Clip cuttings directly above a leaf node to encourage the mother plant to branch.
Remove any leaves on the lower 2 inches of the cuttings with your fingers.
Look for rosemary stems to cut that are actively growing, flexible, and flush with green leaves.
Credit: Stephen Cridland
Rosemary plants become woody as they age, and woody stems are much harder to propagate.
Step 2: Apply rooting hormone.
Dip the cut ends of the rosemary stems in water and dab them in a dish ofrooting hormonepowder.
Rooting hormone isnt strictly required, but it helps cuttings root faster and can ward against rot.
Step 3: Plant the cuttings.
If youre rooting multiplerosemary plantsin the same pot, space the cuttings at least 3 inches apart.
Step 4: Provide water, humidity, and light.
Give the cuttings water until it runs out the bottom of the pots.
Step 5: Check for roots.
Rosemary cuttings take about four to eight weeks to root in soil.
Any cuttings that turn brown or drop leaves during this time arent rooting and should be composted.
Take cuttings from a rosemary plant as described in the first step above.
Refresh the water every few days and toss out cuttings that start to brown or drop leaves.
Rosemary cuttings should begin to develop roots in about two to six weeks when propagated in water.
Keep the cuttings inbright, indirect lightand water regularly.
Outdoor rosemarydoesnt need much fuss and is relatively resistant to pests.
However, rosemary grown indoors is prone to drying out due to dry indoor air.
To avoid this, keep rosemary plants on pebble trays orgrow them near a humidifier.
