Answer: Both lavender (Lavandula spp.) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) are Mediterranean herbs requiring very well-drained soil, especially in the winter. They will not tolerate cold, wet feet.

For potted specimens, we recommend Black Gold^® Natural & Organic Potting Mix with added pumice and perliteto increase drainage. Add three parts potting mix to one part perlite and/or pumice. Incorporate the ingredients fully before adding them to the container. Make sure your container is spacious and has drainage holes at the base.

I recommend choosing compact lavender and rosemary varieties for containers. Lavender ‘Vera‘ (Lavandula officinalis ‘Vera’) is a fine compact specimen, and rosemary ‘Irene‘ (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Irene’) is a beautiful cascading form with good looks and flavor.

For more detailed information, we recommend you read the following article about the soil needs of lavender: Why Soil Matters to Lavender. The soil needs of lavender also apply to rosemary plants.

Happy gardening!

Jessie Keith

Black Gold Horticulturist