Rosemary: A Low-Maintenance Plant with Big Flavor and Benefits
Rosemary is a plant that does not require much attention when grown at home, but to help it thrive, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines. Known for its fragrant, needle-like leaves and slightly piney flavor, rosemary is a staple in kitchens around the world — both as a fresh herb and a dried spice. One of its biggest advantages is that it’s easy to grow, whether in a sunny spot in your garden or on a windowsill in your apartment.
If you’re planning to plant rosemary outdoors, you need to be aware of several factors that can accelerate its deterioration, according to a report from the Daily Express.
Wesley Pier, author of The Modern Plant Parent, shared valuable tips for growing rosemary, emphasizing that it is a low-maintenance plant but does have some non-negotiable needs. A large amount of natural light is essential for successful growth, so it should never be planted under the shade of trees or tall shrubs.
“It needs strong sunlight, without any shade, so plant it away from trees. If you keep rosemary indoors, the best place is a south-facing window with a view of the sky,” explained Pier.
When grown indoors, rosemary prefers to sit next to a window facing east, west, or south. In homes with insufficient sunlight, investing in a small grow light can make a big difference, especially during the shorter days of winter.
Rosemary requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A lack of light leads to thin, elongated stems and weaker flavor in the leaves. Additionally, good air circulation is critical — stagnant air can encourage fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
Soil and Watering Needs
Rosemary prefers well-draining soil, ideally a sandy or loamy mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). It is drought-tolerant once established, so it’s better to underwater than overwater. Always let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again, as overly damp roots can lead to root rot.
Temperature and Seasonal Care
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean, so it thrives in warm, dry conditions. Outdoors, it can survive mild winters, but in colder climates, consider planting it in a pot so you can bring it indoors before frost. If left outside in harsh winters, it may need frost protection such as garden fleece.
Pruning and Harvesting
Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming woody. The best time to harvest is in the morning, when the aromatic oils are at their peak. You can snip fresh sprigs for cooking year-round, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at once.
Bonus Tip — Companion Planting
Rosemary’s strong aroma can deter certain garden pests, making it a great companion plant for vegetables like cabbage, beans, and carrots. However, it does not get along well with plants that prefer more moisture, such as basil.
With these tips, your rosemary plant can provide fresh, flavorful sprigs for years to come — adding both beauty to your space and aroma to your kitchen.
