Caring for a Rosemary Bush

In Warm Climates

• 1

  Provide a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Rosemary isn't picky about the soil type but quickly declines in a wet soil.

• 2

  Water the plant every three to five days during dry spells for the first season. Rosemary is drought tolerant and only needs watering when it shows signs of wilting once it is established.

• 3

  Fertilize plants with kelp-based liquid fertilizer after they have been in the ground several years. Otherwise, rosemary needs no fertilizer.

• 4

  Apply mulch around the plant to discourage weeds and protect the roots from heat. Mulch also helps rosemary withstand cold snaps in winter.

In Cool Climates

• 5

  Grow rosemary in pots in USDA zones cooler than 7. Use a fresh potting soil that drains freely.

• 6

  Allow the soil to dry between waterings, but check the moisture regularly when the pot sits in direct outdoor sunlight. Small pots dry out more quickly than large pots, and clay pots dry quicker than plastic.

• 7

  Repot when the plant becomes root bound. You can trim the roots on large plants to keep the container size manageable. To trim the roots, remove the plant from the pot and cut off the outer 2 inches of soil with a sharp knife. Replace the plant in the pot and fill in with fresh soil.

• 8

  Bring the plant indoors when temperatures below 28 degrees threaten.

Indoor Care

• 9

  Place the plant in a sunny, south-facing window or under artificial lights.

• 10

  Water the plant thoroughly when the soil is almost dry. Empty the saucer under the plant after watering.

• 11

  Mist the plant frequently with a spray bottle of water to prevent the leaves from drying out. This is especially important in winter when the air inside your home is dry.