Striking the right balance is essential.
Pruning to Encourage Healthy Growth
Regular pruning not only keeps rosemary compact and bushy but also promotes new, healthy growth and prevents the plant from drying out.
Trim back about one-third of the plant in spring and summer.
Remove any dead or woody stems to allow better air circulation.
Avoid cutting into old wood, as rosemary has difficulty regenerating from this.
Pruning also improves sunlight penetration, helping all parts of the plant thrive.
Fertilizing Rosemary
Rosemary isn’t a heavy feeder, but occasional feeding helps maintain its vigor.
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive leafy growth with less aroma and flavor.
Preventing Common Problems That Lead to Drying Out
Pests: Spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies can weaken rosemary and cause leaf loss. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew and root rot are common. Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Cold stress: Rosemary is sensitive to frost. If you live in a cooler climate, bring pots indoors or cover garden plants during cold snaps.
Repotting and Refreshing Your Rosemary Plant
If your rosemary has been in the same pot for over a year, consider repotting:
Choose a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil.
Gently loosen roots to encourage growth.
