Lockwood De Forest

Rosemary

120d to harvest

Fragrant as a sunlit hillside, Lockwood De Forest creeps with a silvery-green, resinous charm that perfumes the air when you brush past it. Its narrow, needlelike leaves hold a bold, piney-rosemary flavor with a clean, aromatic bite—ideal for drying and for crafting deeply fragrant herb blends. Let this trailing perennial spill over edges and pathways, where its dense mat and enduring scent make it a favorite for pollinators all season long.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Jan 29th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	120
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Frequently Asked Questions

What pests or diseases commonly affect Salvia rosmarinus (Lockwood De Forest), and how can I stop them?

In full sun gardens, Salvia rosmarinus commonly suffers from powdery mildew when nights are cool and humidity stays high, and from root rot when soil stays soggy. Space plants for airflow, water at the base early in the day, and remove badly affected leaves; if mildew persists, spray with a labeled horticultural sulfur product according to the label. For root rot, let the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil dry between waterings and ensure drainage is excellent (raised beds or gritty soil helps).

How often should I water Salvia rosmarinus during its main growing phase (after it establishes)?

During active growth, water deeply only when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry, aiming for about every 5–10 days depending on heat and rainfall. Salvia rosmarinus prefers evenly dry-to-dry conditions; frequent light watering keeps roots near moisture and increases rot risk. In containers, check daily in hot weather and always drain excess water so the pot never sits in a saucer of water.

How do I tell when Salvia rosmarinus (Lockwood De Forest) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the plant is actively flowering and the foliage is fragrant—generally around 100–120 days from sowing for this type. For best flavor, pick sprigs in the morning after dew dries and before the hottest part of the day, choosing young, tender growth near the tips. If you’re harvesting for drying, cut just before peak bloom so the leaves hold their aroma longer.