Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is one of the most beloved and versatile herbs in both the kitchen and the garden. Whether used to season roasted meats, infuse oils, or freshen up a space with its powerful aroma, a thick, leafy, and aromatic rosemary plant is every gardener’s dream.
If your rosemary is looking sparse, woody, or struggling to thrive, these 5 key tips will help you grow a healthy, lush rosemary plant year-round.
🌿 1. Give It Plenty of Sunlight
Rosemary is a Mediterranean herb that thrives in hot, sunny climates. For it to grow thick and bushy:
- Place your rosemary in a location that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- If grown indoors, position it near a south-facing window or supplement with a grow light.
👉 Insufficient light leads to leggy, spindly growth and weak aroma.
💧 2. Avoid Overwatering – Let the Soil Dry Out
Rosemary hates wet feet. Its roots are sensitive to excess moisture, which can lead to rot and fungal problems.
- Use a well-draining soil, preferably sandy or mixed with perlite.
- Water only when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry.
- Avoid letting the plant sit in water; make sure your pot has drainage holes.
👉 A slightly dry environment encourages stronger oil production, enhancing aroma.
✂️ 3. Prune Regularly to Encourage Bushiness
One of the best ways to keep your rosemary thick and leafy is by pruning:
- Trim back long stems regularly, especially after flowering.
- Don’t be afraid to cut off up to 1/3 of the plant’s growth—this encourages branching.
- Always prune just above a set of leaves or nodes.
👉 Regular pruning prevents the plant from becoming woody and sparse.
🧂 4. Feed It Sparingly – Too Much Fertilizer Is Harmful
Rosemary doesn’t need rich soil or lots of fertilizer. In fact, too much nitrogen can reduce its flavor and aroma.
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