top of page

Rosemary

Salvia rosmarinus

The Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

Formerly known as Rosmarinus officinalis, this plant was recently reclassified as a Salvia (Sage), but its character remains the same. It is a sun-worshipper that thrives on heat and demands excellent drainage. In a pot, it can be grown as an upright shrub or a trailing "prostrate" beauty that spills over the edges.


Setting the Stage for Success

Soil & Fertilizer

Rosemary is a "minimalist." It prefers lean soil over rich, heavy mixes.

  • The Soil: Use a very well-draining potting mix. A blend designed for cactus and succulents is actually perfect for Rosemary. If using standard soil, mix in 30% perlite or grit.

  • Feeding: Use a light organic fertilizer only once a year in early spring. Over-fertilizing leads to fast, weak growth that lacks the high concentration of aromatic oils.

The "Wet Feet" Warning

If there is one way to kill Rosemary, it is overwatering.

  • The Test: Always lift your pot before watering. If it feels heavy, wait. Rosemary leaves are needles; they are designed to conserve water, not transpire it. When in doubt, don't water.

Maintenance, Trimming & Troubleshooting

Pruning for Shape

Rosemary loves a "haircut." In fact, frequent harvesting is the best way to keep the plant from becoming too woody and sparse.

  • The Strategy: Snip the top 2–4 inches of the branches regularly. This encourages the plant to "bush out" from the sides.

  • Woody Base: Avoid cutting back into the old, grey wood that has no needles; it is unlikely to regrow from those points.

Pest Prevention & Troubleshooting

  • Powdery Mildew: This looks like white flour on the needles and is common in humid climates. Ensure your pot is in a "breezy" spot with plenty of airflow.

  • Root Rot: If the needles turn brown and start falling off from the bottom up, the roots are likely staying too wet.

Flavor & Culinary Delight

Rosemary is a powerful herb. Its flavor is a complex mix of pine, lemon, and sage.

  • Fresh: Use whole sprigs in roasting pans with potatoes or chicken. The heat releases the oils without making the needles tough.

  • Dried: Unlike many herbs, Rosemary retains almost all of its flavor when dried.

  • The Skewer Trick: If you have an upright variety, strip the needles from the bottom 3 inches of a woody stem and use the stem as a skewer for grilling shrimp or vegetables.

Pro-Tip: The Aeration Secret

Rosemary roots love oxygen as much as they love water. If your plant has been in the same pot for more than two years, the soil can become compacted. Every spring, take a knitting needle or a thin stick and gently "poke" several deep holes into the soil to allow air to reach the root zone. Your Rosemary will respond with a flush of vibrant new growth!

bottom of page