Where to Buy Rosemary Plants for Your Home and Garden

With its pine-like fragrance, beautiful blue flowers, and versatility in the kitchen, it’s no wonder rosemary is a beloved herb for gardens and indoor spaces But where exactly can you find and buy rosemary plants? This hardy, aromatic herb is readily available from a variety of sources

Online Plant Nurseries

One of the most convenient places to buy rosemary plants is from an online plant nursery. These businesses ship healthy established plants right to your door. Reputable online sellers offer a wide variety of rosemary cultivars suitable for different climates and growing conditions.

Popular online plant stores like Territorial Seed Company, Mountain Valley Growers, and Burpee feature several rosemary varieties to choose from. You’ll also find rosemary at specialty herb nurseries like Richters and Well-Sweep Herb Farm.

The benefit of ordering rosemary plants online is the selection – you can find unusual cultivars beyond what local nurseries carry. However, shipping costs can add up especially for larger plants. Order early in the season before plants sell out.

Local Garden Centers

Visiting a local garden center is a great way to pick out rosemary plants in person. Most independent nurseries and even big home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s carry rosemary in their herb section during spring and summer.

Look for rosemary with healthy foliage and sturdy stems. Avoid any plants with yellowing leaves or other signs of stress. Inspect the roots as well – they should not be pot-bound or crowded.

Buying rosemary locally is convenient and cost-effective since there are no shipping fees. You also get to hand select the exact plant you want. Just be aware that selection is more limited than online. Call ahead to confirm availability.

Farmer’s Markets and Plant Swaps

For a more unique source, check out your local farmer’s market or plant swap. These community events sometimes have independent nurseries or master gardeners selling herbs like rosemary.

Markets and swaps are great places to find interesting rosemary varieties that aren’t commercially popular but grow well locally. Connect with knowledgeable growers for tips on care and cultivation.

Just be aware that plant health and selection at markets can be hit-or-miss. Inspect plants closely and ask about growing conditions before purchasing. But you may discover some real gems.

Supermarket Produce Sections

If you’re in a pinch, many supermarkets sell living rosemary plants in their produce department alongside fresh herbs. Look for them in the spring and summer months.

Grocery store rosemary is not likely to be a specific variety, just a generic culinary type. And the plants are mass produced. But for a common cooking rosemary, they can work when other sources aren’t available.

Be sure to transplant supermarket rosemary into more adequate pots and soil. Keep them outside if temperatures permit, and cut back any flowers until the plant is established. They require a little TLC but can thrive with proper care.

Seed Catalogs and Plant Nursery Websites

Finally, consider ordering rosemary seeds or starts from seed companies and nursery websites. This is a cost-effective option that allows you to grow multiple plants.

Reputable companies like Burpee, Territorial Seed, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, and High Mowing Organic Seeds offer rosemary seeds for sale. Or purchase plant starts in bulk from nurseries like Natorp’s Nursery and Nature Hills Nursery.

Growing rosemary from seed or buying plugs does require patience and proper growing conditions. But with time and care, you can grow an abundant rosemary harvest.

What to Look for When Buying Rosemary

To find healthy rosemary plants for your home and garden, keep these tips in mind when buying:

• Seek out varieties suited for your climate. Ask sellers for recommendations.

• Inspect plants closely for signs of disease, pests, and root problems.

• Look for greener, fresher foliage rather than dry, yellow leaves.

• Avoid rootbound plants that are potted too small for their size.

• For outdoor rosemary, buy good-sized plants over tiny starters which struggle in the elements.

• Seek out organic plants when possible to avoid pesticide exposure.

• Research the seller’s reputation and growing practices before purchasing.

• Read rosemary plant care tags for indicators the plants were properly cared for.

Questions to Ask When Buying Rosemary

Don’t be afraid to ask questions when purchasing rosemary plants. Here are some important ones to get answered:

• Is this variety hardy for our growing zone?

• How old is this plant? How long has it been in this pot size?

• Has this plant been treated with any pesticides or chemicals?

• What growing conditions does this variety prefer?

• How large can I expect this plant to get?

• Do you recommend planting in a pot or in the ground?

• How much sun, water, and space does this rosemary require?

• Are there any special care instructions I should know?

Getting your rosemary questions answered upfront ensures you pick plants suited for your space with clear care guidelines. The seller should be happy to provide growing tips and advice.

Caring for Store Bought Rosemary Plants

Once you get your rosemary plant home, be sure to help it thrive with attentive care:

• Transplant into well-draining soil enriched with compost or fertilizer.

• Place in full sun. Move containers to optimal light conditions.

• Check soil moisture frequently and water when partly dry 1-2 inches deep. Don’t oversaturate.

• Watch for pests like spider mites, aphids, or scales and treat promptly. Quarantine new plants.

• Prune lightly and frequently to promote bushy growth. Don’t remove more than 30% at once.

• Bring potted rosemary indoors before temperatures drop below 30°F.

• Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.

With the right growing conditions and care, your store bought rosemary will soon thrive whether planted in the landscape or a container.

So don’t hesitate to buy rosemary plants this season. With so many sources available, you can find the perfect variety for your kitchen and garden needs. Just select healthy plants, provide attentive care once home, and enjoy their beauty and fragrance for years to come.