Walmart offers a convenient way to acquire rosemary, available in various forms for culinary applications or as a live plant for gardening. Its availability extends beyond fresh sprigs to include dried options and live plants, catering to diverse consumer needs.
Finding Rosemary at Walmart
Rosemary can be located in several sections throughout a Walmart store, depending on the form desired. Live rosemary plants are primarily found in the garden center or outdoor living section, especially during spring and summer when plant selections are most robust; availability may fluctuate seasonally. Fresh culinary rosemary, usually sold in small plastic clamshells or bundles, is typically in the produce section alongside other fresh herbs. Dried rosemary, either whole leaves or ground, is stocked in the spice aisle near other common dried herbs and seasonings. Walmart also offers online purchasing for in-store pickup or home delivery, useful for checking current stock.
Types of Rosemary Sold at Walmart
Live potted rosemary plants are available, often in 4-inch pots, suitable for indoor or outdoor growing. Walmart typically carries general upright or creeping forms, though specific varieties like ‘Tuscan Blue’ or ‘Arp’ are less common than at larger garden centers. Fresh cut rosemary sprigs are packaged in small bundles or plastic containers, ready for immediate culinary use. Dried rosemary is sold in small jars or pouches, in both whole leaf and ground forms, providing a longer-lasting option for seasoning. Occasionally, rosemary seeds might also be available in the gardening section, though growing rosemary from seed can be challenging, making young plants a more common purchase.
Tips for Buying Rosemary at Walmart
When selecting rosemary, inspect the product for freshness and quality. For live plants, look for vibrant green foliage without yellowing or browning, which indicates stress or overwatering. The plant should appear bushy, healthy, and free from visible pests or diseases. A strong, characteristic piney scent upon gently brushing the leaves is a good indicator of a healthy plant with potent aromatic oils. When purchasing fresh culinary rosemary, check for firm, green sprigs and avoid any that appear wilted, slimy, or have dark spots; the aroma should be pronounced and fresh.
For dried rosemary, always check the expiration date to ensure maximum flavor and potency. Packaging should be tightly sealed to maintain freshness. Prices for rosemary at Walmart can vary, with small fresh bundles typically costing a few dollars, dried options priced similarly per container, and live plants ranging from approximately $3 to $30 depending on size and whether they are part of a multi-pack.
Caring for Your Walmart Rosemary Plant
Proper care ensures the longevity of your live rosemary plant from Walmart. Rosemary thrives in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours daily; indoors, place it in a bright, south-facing window or use a grow light. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is susceptible to root rot if overwatered; allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely between waterings. Terracotta pots are beneficial for container-grown rosemary, wicking away excess moisture. Established rosemary in the ground generally needs little fertilizer, but potted plants may benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced all-purpose fertilizer after flowering.