Herbs
Rosemary
Short leafy sprigs from soft growth, leaving the bare old wood intact.
Sowing & planting windows in Australia
Planting timing varies by broad Australian gardening zone. Local weather, unusual seasons and your garden’s microclimate can shift timing.
Cool
Sow · Oct–Nov
Core months: October, November
Possible / shoulder months: March, April, May, September, December
Temperate
Sow · Sep–Nov
Core months: September, October, November
Possible / shoulder months: March, April, May
Subtropical
Sow · Sep–Oct
Core months: September, October
Possible / shoulder months: March, April, May, November
Tropical
Sow · May
Core months: May
Possible / shoulder months: March, April, June, September, October, November
Arid
Sow · Oct–Nov
Core months: October, November
Possible / shoulder months: March, April, May, September
Getting started
Root firm young cuttings for reliable plants, or raise species rosemary from seed; avoid waterlogged mix.
The right conditions
Choose sun to light shade and fertile, free-draining soil; protect from harsh heat where appropriate.
As it grows
Water to establish, then let the soil drain between waterings; prune lightly after growth and avoid prolonged waterlogging.
Ready to harvest
Cut short leafy sprigs from non-woody growth and avoid hard cutting into bare old wood.
Related how-to guides
Root a low stem by layering
Choose a healthy flexible stem that reaches the soil without cracking.
Harvest herbs and pinch basil for more growth
Identify the culinary herb and edible part.
Prune rosemary, sage and other woody herbs gently
Check how the herb grows and where green leafy shoots remain.
Plant guidance: Desk-reviewed; not field-tested. Planting windows are a guide rather than a rule.