How to grow rosemary in a raised bed

Rosemary is a tough, aromatic, near-indestructible shrub that thrives on sun and good drainage — exactly what a raised bed offers. Plant one and you'll have fragrant sprigs for years.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 60–90 cm — it becomes a shrub
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth; loves free drainage
• Time to harvest: pick once established

When should I plant rosemary?

Rosemary is a perennial — plant in spring or autumn and it'll last for years. It grows year-round in most of Australia. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): February to November
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): February to May and August to November
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): March to April and September to November
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to August
• Arid inland: March to October

How do I grow rosemary in a raised bed?

Plant into free-draining mix in the sunniest spot — the one thing rosemary won't tolerate is wet feet, which a raised bed neatly solves. Prune lightly after flowering to keep it bushy.

How often should I water and feed rosemary?

Water new plants until established, then only in dry spells — rosemary prefers it on the dry side and hates being overwatered.

What pests attack rosemary?

Keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with rosemary?

The main one to watch is powdery mildew, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with rosemary?

A good companion to carrots, beans and brassicas, and its flowers are a magnet for bees. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest rosemary?

Snip sprigs as you need them, year-round. It dries beautifully — hang small bunches in an airy spot.

More growing guides: thyme, oregano and sage.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Christian Ferrer, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.