When to plant Rosemary in Bath

Take non-flowering shoots and trim them just below a leaf joint. Insert them into free-draining compost around 24th April - 15th May, and keep them just moist, not wet.

Once roots fill the pot, move each cutting into its own container from 29th May. Use a gritty mix and handle the stems gently so the young roots are not damaged.

Set young plants outside for short periods from 12th June, then leave them out longer over about 10 days. Keep them sheltered from cold wind and bring them in if a late frost is forecast.

Plant into well-drained soil or a larger pot from 26th June. Water in thoroughly at once, then leave the compost to dry slightly before watering again.

Pinch out the soft tips from 26th June to keep plants bushy and stop them becoming leggy. Water only when the compost has dried a little, and avoid feeding heavily because that makes soft growth.

Pick sprigs regularly from 26th July once plants are well established. Take small amounts at a time and avoid cutting into old bare wood, which often fails to reshoot.