‘Rosemary thrives in conditions that mimic its native habitat.
Sunlight: Full sun—at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing window or balcony is ideal.
Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or gritty soil is non-negotiable. Use a cactus/succulent mix or standard potting soil amended with perlite or coarse sand (30–50%).
Container: Choose a pot with ample drainage holes. Terra cotta is excellent as it wicks away excess moisture. Start with at least a 8–12 inch pot to accommodate growth.
Watering: Water deeply only when the top 1–2 inches of soil are completely dry. Then, allow water to drain fully. Overwatering is the #1 killer of rosemary. Reduce watering in winter.
Temperature & Humidity: Prefers warm, dry air (65–80°F). It is not frost-hardy. Bring indoors if temperatures dip below 30°F (-1°C). It tolerates low humidity well.
Step 3: Care for Abundant Growth
Feeding: Fertilize sparingly. Use a balanced, organic liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, once in early spring and once in mid-summer. Too much fertilizer reduces essential oil concentration.
Pruning: Harvest regularly to promote bushier growth. Never remove more than 1/3 of the plant at once. Pinch off stem tips frequently.
Overwintering (Cold Climates): Bring potted rosemary indoors to a bright, cool (40–60°F) location. A sunny, unheated garage or porch can work. Water very sparingly.
