How to Care for Your Rosemary Plant

Rosemary is not only a flavorful herb used in cooking, but it also makes a beautiful addition to any garden. In order to keep your rosemary plant thriving, it is important to properly care for it. Follow these simple steps to ensure a healthy and happy rosemary plant.

1. Choose the Right Location

Rosemary plants thrive in full sunlight and well-draining soil. Make sure to plant your rosemary in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. The soil should be fast-draining, as rosemary does not tolerate waterlogged roots. If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, consider planting your rosemary in a container.

2. Water Regularly

While it is important to not overwater your rosemary plant, it does require regular watering to stay healthy. During the growing season, water your rosemary once a week. When watering, make sure to soak the soil thoroughly and allow it to dry out slightly before watering again.

3. Fertilize Sparingly

Rosemary does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it will benefit from a small amount of balanced fertilizer once or twice a year. Fertilize in the spring and again in the fall, using an organic fertilizer specifically formulated for herbs.

4. Prune Regularly

Regular pruning will help keep your rosemary plant healthy and bushy. Prune in the spring once new growth starts, and again in the fall before the plant goes dormant for the winter. Use sharp, clean secateurs to cut back the stems by a third or half, making sure to cut above a set of leaves.

5. Protect from Frost

Rosemary is a hardy herb that can withstand light frost, but will not survive a hard freeze. If you live in an area with cold winter temperatures, consider covering your rosemary with frost cloth or bringing it indoors for the winter.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your rosemary plant healthy and happy for years to come. Enjoy the delicious flavor and fragrant aroma of this versatile herb in your cooking, and the beauty of its unique, evergreen foliage in your garden.