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Rosemary Plant in the High Desert
Rosemary Plant in the High Desert. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is hardy in US Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 11 with some varieties that grow in USDA zone 6. High desert areas range from USDA zone 9 in the higher parts of the Mojave desert to USDA zone 5 in the Great Basin. Thanks to breeding programs throughout the...
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is hardy in US Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 11 with some varieties that grow in USDA zone 6. High desert areas range from USDA zone 9 in the higher parts of the Mojave desert to USDA zone 5 in the Great Basin. Thanks to breeding programs throughout the world, rosemary varieties include large, medium and small shrubs as well as prostrate, spreading ground covers.
Climate
The Mediterranean climate where rosemary is native has hot, dry summers and cool, rainy, frost-free winters. Although rosemary can take light frost and short periods below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it will die back with long, hard freezes. Rosemary will benefit from afternoon shade in the hotter high-desert areas. It can be grown in a protected area in the higher parts of the Sonoran Desert and should be grown in a pot and taken inside for the winter in the Great Basin high desert.
Soil
Rosemary thrives in well-draining, alkaline soil, which is typical for high desert areas. There is little need to fertilize the shrubs except in the poorest soil. When growing rosemary in pots, use a large pot and a light potting soil with a little sand mixed with it.
Water
Although rosemary does best in well-draining soil, it has many small, fibrous roots. If they are allowed to dry out completely, the plant will die. Regular watering is essential. Soak the soil thoroughly whenever the top 2 inches of soil is dry. The Master Gardeners of Santa Clara, California, recommend watering every three weeks, but rosemary may require more frequent watering in hotter, drier areas.
Pests and Diseases
Rosemary is a relatively problem-free shrub. Aphids, spider mites and spittle bugs can sometimes be found on rosemary. They can all be controlled by washing the shrub with a strong stream of water. Powdery mildew can be a problem if there is poor air circulation. Prune the plant to open it up and improve air circulation. If the soil is too wet, the plants can get crown and root rot. Avoid overwatering or too frequent watering.
