When to plant Rosemary in Birmingham

Take spring heel cuttings around 27th April - 18th May. Pull off non-flowering side shoots with a small heel attached. Insert them into free-draining compost. Keep them just moist, not wet.

• A bought young plant is a quicker route. Growing from seed is another route.

Once roots fill the pot, move each cutting into its own container from 1st June. Use a gritty mix and handle the stems gently so the young roots are not damaged.

Set young plants outside for short periods from 15th 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 29th June, but only when the cutting is strongly rooted. Otherwise overwinter it somewhere frost-free and plant it out next spring. Water in, then let the compost dry slightly before watering again.

If growth is leggy, pinch out soft tips from 29th June to 16th September. Never cut into old wood. Water only when the compost has dried a little. Do not feed heavily.

Pick small amounts from 29th July once the plant is well established. Do not cut into old bare wood.

• Established rosemary can be picked all year. The best soft growth comes in late spring and summer.