Can rosemary and lavender share containers?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Rosemary and lavender are such complementary companions when correctly mixed together. They have similar growing needs: both are Mediterranean plants needing a good amount of sun exposure and little water. Since they like the same things, they are simple to care for in unison, you can make beautiful scented dishes easily. This combination is for container gardeners of any level.
Soil Requirements
- Mix: 3 parts potting soil + 1 part coarse sand + 1 part perlite
- Drainage: Minimum 1-inch gravel layer at container bottom
- pH: Maintain 6.5-7.5 for optimal nutrient absorption
Sunlight Management
- Duration: 6-8 hours direct sunlight daily minimum
- Rotation: Turn container 90° every 3 days
- Signs: Pale leaves indicate insufficient light
Watering Technique
- Frequency: Only when top 2 inches feel completely dry
- Method: Soak until drainage appears then stop
- Seasonal: Reduce watering by 50% in winter
Choose suitable containers specifically for this companion pairing. Breathability is ideal, so you may find unglazed clay pots preferable. A minimum width of 14 inches is necessary for trellising these root systems together. Ensure multiple drainage holes exist. My shared container has endured three seasons now. Elevate the pots for airflow underneath.
Implement seasonal protection. Move outdoor containers indoors when temperatures drop below 30°F (-1°C). Place them next to south-facing windows to take advantage of natural warmth. Scale back watering when the plants' growing cycles slow in dormancy. You don't need to fertilize the plants in the winter months. As the seasons change, my plants enter dormancy, and when spring arrives, they burst back into growth.
Harvest both herbs regularly for optimal cooking results. Snip sprigs of rosemary as needed. Cut off the stems of lavender just before the blossoms are fully open to promote more bushy plants. Rosemary and lavender can be dried in the dark if you accumulate a surplus. Your pot will spoil you.
Read the full article: 10 Best Herbs for Container Gardening Success
