Growing Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, from cuttings can be a relatively fast and easy way to propagate this herb. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully grow rosemary from cuttings:
Materials you will need:
- Healthy rosemary plant with mature stems
- Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors
- Small pots or containers with drainage holes
- Well-draining potting mix (a mix of perlite and peat moss works well)
- Rooting hormone (optional but can improve success rates)
- Clear plastic bags or plastic wrap
- A misting spray bottle
- A bright, indirect light source
Steps:
- Select the right stems: Choose healthy, non-flowering stems that are at least 4-6 inches long. These stems should be free from disease or damage.
- Prepare your cutting: Use clean pruning shears or scissors to make a clean cut just below a node (the point where leaves or branches grow). Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting.
- Rooting hormone (optional): While not strictly necessary, dipping the cut end of the rosemary cutting into rooting hormone can help promote root development and increase your success rate. Follow the instructions on the rooting hormone product for proper usage.
- Plant the cutting: Fill your small pots or containers with well-draining potting mix. Insert the cut end of the rosemary cutting into the soil, burying it at least 2 inches deep. Firmly press the soil around the cutting to ensure good soil-to-stem contact.
- Mist and cover: Lightly mist the soil to moisten it without saturating it. Then, cover each pot with a clear plastic bag or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect. This will help maintain humidity around the cutting.
- Provide indirect light: Place the pots in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cutting. A north-facing windowsill or under fluorescent lights can work well.
- Maintain humidity: Mist the inside of the plastic bag or plastic wrap daily to keep the humidity levels high. This will encourage root development.
- Check for roots: After a few weeks (typically 4-6 weeks), gently tug on the cutting. If you feel resistance, it means roots have formed. If not, continue to mist and check periodically until roots develop.
- Transplant: Once your rosemary cutting has developed a good root system, carefully remove it from the pot and transplant it into a larger container or into your garden.
- Care for your young plant: Continue to provide proper care for your newly propagated rosemary plant, including well-draining soil, regular watering (allow the soil to dry slightly between watering), and proper sunlight. Rosemary prefers full sun or at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.