Rosemary Preservation - If Necessary

Preserving Rosemary

Rosemary is quite cold hardy, but nonetheless, you might want to trim some to insure a supply through winter, especially in zone 7 and colder. You can store the cut stems as they are by hanging them or propping them in a vase (no water) so that the leaves air-dry naturally indoors. Then just pluck a few as you need them. They will fall off very easily as they dry.

After a few weeks, you may need to collect the little leaves in a jar because it will seem that they fall if you even look at them.

If you cut big pile of stems, avoid piling them up on top of each other to prevent mold, especially if they are in a garage or basement. Spread them out over a table or screen if possible.

Extra tip is to take some of the fresh leaves, stems and put in jar with top in hot water, steep in refrigerator for couple of days then strain into spritzer bottle. You can now spritz your hair, or your pet's coat, and the rosemeary essential oil will add sheen to your hair or pet's coat. In summer the oil is also an insect repellent for your pet.