Cutting rosemary is the fastest way to get a lush spicy bush
In flower shops you can often find pots with lush rosemary bushes. However, there is also a more affordable way to grow fragrant herb - this is by cutting rosemary. If the price for a pot culture "bites", then planting material for cuttings can be purchased at times cheaper. The easiest option is to ask for cuttings from friends who are growing spices. You can also buy a pack of rosemary greens in the store. These twigs root well too if they are fresh and do it right.
How to determine the freshness of store-bought rosemary
The first step is to pay attention to the dates, which are on the packaging. Rosemary that has expired will already be well attached, and is unlikely to take root.
Some unscrupulous sellers before the holidays re-stick labels on packages with herbs. So don't trust too much figures, but it is better to have a good look at the branches. Freshly cut, fresh, rosemary, leaves are elastic, rich in color and without various spots. If the tips the leaves began to dry out and turn black, and they themselves are sluggish - from such shoots quality cuttings cannot be taken.
Cuttings rosemary - the subtleties of harvesting cuttings and methods of rooting
For reproduction, very long branches are not needed. Cuttings about 15 cm long are sufficient.If the stems purchased in store, very high, they can be cut into shafts.
In the lower part of the cuttings, where the roots will grow, you need to cut off all the leaves. The stem should be "bald" at a height of about 5 cm.
There are two ways to root rosemary cuttings:
- In water. The lower exposed part of the shank must be completely in the water. The plant grows roots for a long time, but after 14-16 days they can be seen. To prevent moisture from evaporating quickly from the glass, it must be covered with a cardboard. Make a cutout in it and insert the cuttings, fixing them. You can add an activated carbon tablet or a little Fitosporin solution to the water itself.
- Immediately in the soil. It should be very loose. Under natural conditions, rosemary grows in soil with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction. The soil for indoor rosemary must meet the same requirements. Do not forget about good drainage, because excess moisture for a plant is destructive. Until the cuttings are rooted, they should be kept under a hood.
If possible, it is better to use a stalk with a heel. It takes root faster.
When developed roots are formed on the cuttings, their can be transplanted to a permanent place. If it is a garden, then the landing should be carried out not earlier than the end of May so that the bushes do not die from frost. IN in pots, rosemary will feel great in the room, but for the summer it is advisable to take it out into the street.