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Steps
1
Select healthy stems from a mature rosemary plant. Look for soft, flexible green growth at the tips rather than woody brown stems. This is most successful in late spring to early summer or early fall after flowering.
2
Cut a 4- to 6-inch section from the tip of the stem using sharp pruners or scissors, clipping just below a leaf node. If cutting a long stem into sections, remember which end was lower on the parent plant, as this is the end that will produce roots.
3
Gently remove leaves from the bottom 2 to 3 inches of the stem, leaving a small bunch of five or six leaves at the top. Avoid tearing the leaves to prevent damaging the plant.
4
Dip the stripped end of the rosemary stem into powdered rooting hormone to stimulate growth before planting.
5
Use a pencil or dibber to make a hole in the well-draining potting soil. Plant the stem 3 to 4 inches deep and water thoroughly immediately after planting. If using a single pot for multiple stems, space them 1.5 to 2 inches apart.
6
Place the pot in a location that receives 6 to 8 hours of sun daily. Keep the soil moist to the touch, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
7
After approximately 8 weeks, give the plants a gentle tug to verify that roots have established. Once new growth begins to develop, separate the plants into individual pots or transplant them into the garden.
Pro Tips
For better drainage, create a soil blend using one part perlite or sand to one or two parts compost.
To help regulate temperature and maintain moisture, you can place the entire pot inside a plastic bag with a few holes punctured in the top.