How to Grow Rosemary from Cuttings in Water 🌿

Growing rosemary from cuttings is an easy and inexpensive way to cultivate this aromatic herb. Propagating rosemary in water is not only beginner-friendly but also ensures a higher success rate compared to planting directly in soil. Once the roots develop, the cuttings can be transplanted into pots, allowing you to enjoy fresh rosemary at home year-round.

🧰 Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• A healthy rosemary plant
• Sharp scissors or pruning shears
• Clear glass or jar
• Room-temperature water
• Small pots (6-8 inches in diameter)
• Well-draining potting mix (with sand or perlite)
• Optional: Rooting hormone

✂️ Step 2: Take Healthy Cuttings

Select 4-6 inch long cuttings from new, green growth (not woody stems). Cut just below a leaf node and strip off the bottom leaves on the lower 1-2 inches of the stem.

💧 Step 3: Prepare and Place the Cuttings in Water

Fill a clear jar with room-temperature water. Place the rosemary cuttings in the jar so that the stripped nodes are submerged. Place in bright, indirect sunlight (like a windowsill).

Pro Tip: Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to speed up root development. Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh.

🌱 Step 4: Monitor Root Growth

Roots will usually start forming within 2-4 weeks. Wait until roots are around 2 inches long before transplanting. If no roots appear by week 4, try adjusting the light or changing water more often.

🪴 Step 5: Transplant the Rooted Cuttings into Pots

Materials Needed:

• A pot with drainage holes
• Well-draining soil mix
• A small trowel

How to Transplant:

1. Fill the pot with well-draining potting mix.
2. Create a hole with your finger or trowel.
3. Insert the rooted cutting and pat the soil gently to secure.
4. Water thoroughly to settle the plant.

🌞 Step 6: Care for Your Potted Rosemary

1. Light

Provide 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Ideal spots include sunny windowsills and patios.

2. Watering

Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

3. Fertilizing

Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring/summer).

4. Pruning

Trim the tips regularly to encourage bushier growth. Use the trimmings in cooking!

🛠️ Common Problems and Solutions

• Roots Not Forming: Try changing water more often or providing brighter indirect light. Rooting hormone can help.
• Drooping Cuttings After Transplant: Likely transplant shock. Keep soil moist and shield from direct sun for a few days.
• Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering is a common cause. Let soil dry between waterings and ensure good drainage.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Growing rosemary from cuttings in water is a simple, cost-effective, and rewarding method to expand your herb garden. With patience and care, you’ll have lush rosemary plants to enjoy all year round—straight from your kitchen window!

❓ FAQs About Growing Rosemary from Cuttings

1. Can rosemary grow in water permanently? No, it needs to be transplanted into soil for long-term health.
2. How long does it take rosemary to root in water? Typically 2-4 weeks.
3. Can I root rosemary from woody stems? It’s possible but harder—new green growth is more effective.
4. What type of water is best for rooting? Room-temperature tap or filtered water changed regularly.
5. Should I use fertilizer while rooting? No, wait until after transplanting to soil.
6. Do I need rooting hormone? It’s optional but can improve success rates.
7. Why are my cuttings turning brown? Possibly due to lack of light, dirty water, or overly old stems.
8. How do I encourage bushier rosemary? Regular pruning of growing tips helps shape and thicken the plant.
9. Can rosemary be grown indoors year-round? Yes, with enough sunlight or grow lights.
10. What soil is best for rosemary? A sandy, well-draining mix works best to mimic its native Mediterranean conditions.