Unlocking the Mystery: How to Water Rosemary for Vibrant Growth

Rosemary, cherished for its fragrance and versatile uses in Italian cuisine, often graces the pots of balconies and terraces. While this resilient herb requires minimal water, ensuring its optimal health involves some lesser-known gardening tricks.

Understanding Rosemary’s Watering Needs:

To enjoy the distinctive aroma and benefits of rosemary, it’s crucial to grasp its watering requirements. Despite being drought-resistant, especially suitable during dry periods, recently planted rosemary—whether from seeds or cuttings—demands more water compared to a well-established shrub that can thrive solely on natural precipitation (provided it exceeds 450 mm annually).

However, be cautious as rosemary is susceptible to root rot, which could lead to its demise.

Avoid Water Stagnation:

In essence, your approach should revolve around observing and experimenting with your rosemary. To determine when and how much to water, rely on touch: insert a finger deep into the surrounding soil, and if it feels moist, delay watering; if dry, proceed with small quantities. Ensure that water doesn’t drip from the pot.

When planting, choose a container with ample drainage holes, create a bottom layer of gravel, and cover it with lightweight soil. After each watering, allow the substrate to dry before adding more liquid.

Rather than adhering to a strict watering schedule, monitor your plant’s condition and adjust accordingly based on climate and external temperatures.

This straightforward advice will help you maintain a thriving and blossoming rosemary plant, whether it’s summer or winter.