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Frozen Rosemary? #890519

Asked December 04, 2024, 3:42 PM EST

How much exposure to sub-freezing temps can a rosemary plant survive? Coming and going into the Wayzata HS building as a substitute teacher, I noticed a few container gardens out front. I admired a rosemary plant about 1' x 2'. As temps dropped the past week, I expected someone to bring it inside. I received permission today to "rescue" it. (See photo) It was planted in a circular container that was set on the concrete surface. I loosened the soil and was careful to avoid any roots. The dirt "ball" was initially 2' x 1'. The photo shows the standard office paper box's sides bulging out. I have a poor track record with rosemary plants indoors. I have purchased worm castings and cactus mix, used turkey grit, terra cotta pot shards, hydroballs, then sand over time. I've read that rosemary grows on rocky outcrops in Mediterranean countries and that it does not like it's "feet wet". None have survived. Does this one even have a chance, given the low temps in the past weeks? I would appreciate information on how to help this rosemary to good health and how to succeed in keeping it healthy for years. In the past, rosemary plants have spent the summer outside, still in their pots, then brought in before the first frost. Thank you! - - Jo Sueker

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Many Minnesotans successfully grow rosemary year round. Outdoors in the summer and then indoors over winter. I can't say whether your plant will survive or not. It is worth a try, if not, new plants are readily available in the spring.

To overwinter rosemary, pot it up with potting soil.  Place it in a cool location (40-50 degrees), provide good light (south window or artificial light) and water it after it dries out. Do not harvest leaves off of it during the winter. Then gradually move it outdoors in spring. Good luck!

Paul -Master Gardener volunteer

An Ask Extension Expert Replied December 04, 2024, 6:59 PM EST
Good Morning, Paul! 
 
Thank you for your reply! I cut off 2 branches last night (as close to center of plant as possible) and felt  hopeful when I see that half of the cross section was green!
 
Regarding they overwinter potting, I described the clump of soil that I harvested with the plant's roots as pretty much equal to the size of the above-ground plant. Do I try to shake/knock off any of the original soil? When "Yes", how much? Vigorously? Gently? 
Do I remove branches with dead leaves? Do I cut back at all? 
 
Regarding the overwinter temperature, I'm struggling to think of a spot in my 1950s-era walk-out rambler that would drop below 60°. I had an uninsulated entry built yet I know that liquids have frozen out there when temps outside hit 20° or below. Ideas? 
 
I appreciate that you are available to give guidance. 
 
- - Jo 
 
On 12/04/2024 5:59 PM CST Ask Extension wrote:
 
 
The Question Asker Replied December 06, 2024, 1:45 PM EST

That's encouraging that you see green! No need to knock off any of the soil. Simply place the rootball in a pot and fill around it. I would not cut back any branches at this time. I think in your basement will be fine as long as you provide good light. I would not risk the unheated entry. Remember water is important: water all winter when the soil dries; too much is bad but left unattended and dry is also to be avoided. Enjoy the experiment to save the rosemary!

Paul

An Ask Extension Expert Replied December 06, 2024, 4:38 PM EST

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