Rosemary

Water: Medium, light

Fertilize: Occasionally

General Information: 

 Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a versatile and hardy plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it a popular choice for herb enthusiasts.

When selecting a location for your rosemary plant, it is important to consider its sunlight requirements. Rosemary thrives in full sun, so choose a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you are growing rosemary indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use grow lights to provide sufficient light.

Rosemary prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 6 and 7. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding organic matter such as compost or sand to improve drainage. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches and remove any weeds or debris. If planting in a container use a good quality potting mix and add extra aggregate for drainage.

Now that you have prepared the soil, it's time to plant your rosemary. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Gently backfill the hole and firm the soil around the plant.

Proper watering is crucial for the health of your rosemary plant. Water your rosemary deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to strike a balance. Monitor the moisture level of the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Rosemary is a relatively low-maintenance plant when it comes to fertilizing. A light application of a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of essential oils and flavour.

One of the joys of growing rosemary is being able to harvest and enjoy its aromatic leaves. You can start harvesting rosemary once the plant has reached a height of 6-8 inches. Simply snip off the desired amount of leaves, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Rosemary is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation or disease, and take appropriate measures such as using insecticidal soap or organic fungicides if necessary.