How to Grow Rosemary from a Cutting

Root rosemary cuttings in water or soil by taking 4-6 inch stems from healthy plants, removing lower leaves, and keeping them moist in bright, indirect light for 2-4 weeks until roots develop.

  1. Choose the Right Stems. Choose healthy, non-flowering stems from an established rosemary plant. Cut 4-6 inch pieces using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Make your cuts just below a leaf node where roots will emerge most easily. Take several cuttings since not all may successfully root.
  2. Strip and Ready. Strip off all leaves from the bottom 2 inches of each cutting. Leave 4-6 sets of leaves at the top. This prevents the cutting from losing too much moisture while encouraging root development at the bare stem sections.
  3. Pick Your Method. You can root rosemary in water or directly in soil. For water rooting, place cuttings in a glass jar with 2-3 inches of clean water. For soil rooting, dip the bare stem ends in rooting hormone powder, then plant them 2 inches deep in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
  4. Create Ideal Conditions. Place your cuttings in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun which can stress the plants before they develop roots. Keep the temperature between 65-75°F. If rooting in water, change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
  5. Keep Things Moist. For water-rooted cuttings, ensure water levels stay consistent. For soil-rooted cuttings, keep the potting mix slightly moist but not waterlogged. Mist the leaves lightly every few days to maintain humidity around the plant.
  6. Spot Root Growth. Roots typically appear within 2-4 weeks. Water-rooted cuttings will show white roots easily through the glass. For soil-rooted plants, gently tug the cutting after 3 weeks - resistance indicates root growth. New leaf growth is another positive sign.
  7. Move to Permanent Home. Once roots reach 1-2 inches long, transplant water-rooted cuttings into well-draining potting soil. For both methods, gradually introduce plants to more sunlight over a week before moving them to their permanent location outdoors or in a sunny window.