How to Plant Rosemary With Marigolds

Choose a location that offers full sunlight, air circulation and good drainage. Marigolds need sunlight for successful bloom production and the sun allows rosemary to develop the highest levels of flavor and essential oils that aid in pest prevention. Proper air circulation keeps foliage dry and prevents some diseases. Both plants require consistent moisture but will not tolerate soggy soil conditions.

Work a 2-inch layer of compost and coarse sand into the soil, in equal amounts, to a depth of at least 10 to 12 inches. Use a shovel and rake to thoroughly blend amendments with the existing dirt. For container-grown plants, use any commercial, sterile potting mix with added perlite for best results.

Alternate and space plants in the chosen site according to the variety and their expected size at maturity. Marigolds range from 6 inches to 4 feet in height, with a spread ranging from 6 inches to 3 feet. Upright rosemary shrubs, best in a landscape scenario, reach 4 feet or taller, while prostrate varieties reach 2 feet or more in height with a spread of up to 4 feet, unless pruned. In flower beds, plant taller rosemary varieties at the back and marigolds at the front, or plant varieties that will reach the same height in a row, alternating plants for an even appearance. In a garden setting, follow spacing requirements for the other vegetables, and allow additional space for movement between the rows.

Dig a hole for each plant, allowing enough depth so that the transplant will be even with the soil line.

Remove a plant gently from its container, holding it at the base of the stem. Gently loosen the root structure with your fingers to encourage full development after planting. Repeat this process for each marigold and rosemary plant.

Set the plant into the prepared hole and pack soil around and up to the base of the stem, patting soil down lightly to remove any large air pockets.

Water the planting site gently to settle the plants into their new surroundings. During the season, water once a week, with approximately 1 inch of water, allowing the top of the soil to dry between waterings.

Snip off 4 inches or less on growing rosemary plants to encourage development throughout the season. Pinch off any spent marigold blooms to encourage further bloom development.