Growing Rosemary: The Unexpected Joy of a Simple Herb (And How to Keep It Thriving Year-Round)

Sometimes, the smallest things bring the most joy. For me, one of those things has been growing rosemary. It's a simple herb, nothing flashy, but it’s changed the way I look at my garden—and life, really. There’s something calming about tending to a plant that gives back so much. And once you experience it, you’ll want to keep it thriving all year long.

Here’s what I’ve learned about rosemary over the years, and why I think it’s the perfect herb to slow down with—and how to keep it going, no matter the season.

1. Why Rosemary Deserves a Spot in Your Life

If you've never run your fingers through rosemary and breathed in that unmistakable scent, you're missing something. It’s more than an herb. It’s grounding. There’s a peace that comes with it, whether it’s the simple act of tending to it or the smell filling your kitchen. It feels like a piece of the Mediterranean in your backyard, bringing a bit of sunshine to even the coldest day.

For me, rosemary is a little reminder to take things slower, to appreciate the everyday. And, luckily, it’s a plant that doesn’t ask for much.

2. How to Keep Rosemary Thriving (Even in Winter)

Now, growing rosemary isn’t hard, but keeping it healthy through the winter takes a bit of extra care. Here’s how I’ve managed to do it, even when the temperatures drop.

Cover It Up When the Cold Hits

Every winter, I cover my rosemary outside with insulating fabric just before the frost sets in. It’s a simple step, but it works wonders at keeping the plant warm when the snow starts falling. There’s something deeply satisfying about protecting a plant you’ve nurtured all year, knowing it’s safely tucked away beneath its blanket of fabric.

Prune It Back to Help It Last

Before I cover my rosemary, I cut it way back. Not only does this prepare it for the winter, but it also encourages new growth when the weather warms up. Cutting it back has become part of my yearly ritual, signaling that it's time to slow down for the season—just as the garden does.

The Quiet Joy of Winter Rosemary

One of my favorite things is walking out into the snowy yard, pulling the fabric back, and finding fresh rosemary growing underneath. There’s something almost magical about stepping out into the cold, brushing off the snow, and plucking a sprig of rosemary that survived the winter. It’s a reminder that life continues to thrive, even in the harshest conditions.

Let It Breathe

Rosemary loves good air circulation, so don’t smother it. Even when it’s covered for the winter, I make sure the plant has room to breathe underneath the fabric. It’s one of those little details that make a big difference.

Less is More with Water

I’ve learned over the years that rosemary prefers to dry out between watering sessions. Especially during winter, when it’s easy to overwater indoor plants, rosemary likes to stay on the dry side. Let the top inch of soil dry out before giving it another drink.

3. Rosemary in the Kitchen: More Than a Pretty Plant

Of course, one of the best things about growing rosemary is that it’s as useful as it is beautiful. I use it all the time in the kitchen. Whether I’m infusing olive oil with it, roasting potatoes, or adding a sprig to a cocktail, rosemary elevates simple dishes into something special. And the best part? It’s always fresh when you grow it yourself—no need for store-bought, dried-out versions.

It’s also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. So, it's not just delicious; it’s good for you too.

4. Slow Living, One Herb at a Time

There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, even if it’s something as small as rosemary. It’s about more than just having fresh herbs on hand. It’s about connecting to your space, appreciating the process, and slowing down enough to enjoy it. In a world that’s always on fast-forward, there’s a quiet joy in growing something at your own pace.

For me, rosemary is a little reminder to slow down. To take a deep breath, appreciate the snow crunching beneath my feet, and marvel at the resilience of life, even in the midst of winter. There’s something about tending to rosemary that grounds you in the present moment, reminding you to enjoy the process as much as the outcome.

Conclusion: Growing Rosemary All Year

Rosemary is resilient, fragrant, and endlessly rewarding. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had rosemary in your garden for years, with a bit of care, you can enjoy it year-round. And trust me, once you experience the joy of growing your own, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.