As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can tell you that whether or not rosemary stays alive all year depends on the climate and the specific region where it is grown. Rosemary is a hardy evergreen herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, where it thrives in warm and sunny conditions. In areas with mild winters, such as Zone 8 and warmer, rosemary plants can often survive outdoors with some winter protection.
However, in regions with harsher winters, such as Zone 7 and colder, rosemary plants are not able to withstand the cold temperatures and need to be overwintered indoors if you want them to survive. This is because rosemary is not frost-tolerant and can suffer significant damage or even die if exposed to freezing temperatures for an extended period of time.
Overwintering rosemary plants indoors involves bringing them inside before the first frost and providing them with the right conditions to survive until spring. Here are some steps you can take to successfully overwinter your rosemary plants:
1. Choose a suitable location: Find a sunny spot indoors, such as a south-facing window or a greenhouse, where your rosemary plant can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Rosemary requires plenty of light to grow and thrive.
2. Adjust temperature and humidity: Rosemary prefers cooler temperatures around 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the winter months. However, it is important to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts, as they can stress the plant. Maintaining a moderate level of humidity is also beneficial, as rosemary prefers a slightly more humid environment than most other herbs.
3. Water sparingly: Rosemary plants should be watered sparingly during the winter months, as they go into a dormant state and require less moisture. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s important to strike a balance.
4. Provide good air circulation: Proper air circulation is essential for preventing fungal diseases and ensuring the health of your rosemary plant. Avoid overcrowding your plants and ensure there is enough space between them to allow for airflow.
5. Prune as needed: If your rosemary plant becomes leggy or overgrown during the winter, you can prune it back to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. However, avoid heavy pruning during the winter months, as it can stimulate new growth that may be more susceptible to damage from low temperatures.
6. Monitor for pests: Even indoors, rosemary plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pest infestations and take appropriate measures, such as using organic pest control methods or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.
By following these steps and providing the right care, you can successfully overwinter your rosemary plants indoors and ensure their survival until spring. It’s worth noting that rosemary plants can be quite resilient, and with proper care, they can thrive for many years, even when grown in containers indoors.
In my personal experience, I have successfully overwintered rosemary plants indoors in Zone 7 by following these guidelines. By providing them with enough light, maintaining a suitable temperature and humidity, and being mindful of their water and pruning needs, I was able to keep my rosemary plants healthy and thriving throughout the winter months.
While rosemary is not able to stay alive outdoors in regions with harsh winters, with the right care and attention, it is possible to overwinter rosemary plants indoors and enjoy their fragrant leaves year-round.
