Dear plant lovers, today I want to chat with you about a super popular herb—rosemary! It not only has a rich fragrance but can also add a touch of Mediterranean style to your kitchen. But don't be fooled by its beauty, it has its own rules for cultivation! Next, let me guide you step-by-step to uncover the secrets of rosemary care, so that your little green plant can grow strong and be full of fragrance!
I. Rosemary's "Home" Must Be Chosen Correctly
Rosemary is a bit picky; it likes pots with good breathability. Imagine a pot that can "breathe," doesn't that sound pleasant? Unglazed pottery is a great choice as its breathability is excellent, allowing rosemary's little roots to breathe freely. As for the pot size, about 20 cm is sufficient. A larger one might actually make it grow slower!
II. Soil, Rosemary's "Nutritious Meal"
Rosemary's requirements for soil are not high; ordinary garden soil is sufficient. However, before planting, you can add some fertilizer as a base fertilizer to give it a nutritious meal. Remember, rosemary likes alkaline soil, so you can sprinkle a bit of plant ash to adjust the soil's pH level.
III. Watering, Rosemary's "Water Management"
Rosemary is a drought-tolerant little guy, so watering should be moderate. In the summer, watering once in the morning and once in the evening is enough. In other seasons, watering once a week is generally sufficient, but adjust according to the soil's moisture. Remember, it's better to be too dry than too wet. Water only when the soil is pale white from dryness, so it can have a good drink!
IV. Light, Rosemary's "Sunbath"Rosemary is a sun baby; it needs plenty of sunlight. In spring, autumn, and winter, you can place it in a sunny spot to fully enjoy the sun's embrace. In the summer, provide some shade to avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch its leaves.
V. Fertilizing, Rosemary's "Nutrient Supply"Rosemary doesn't have high demands for fertilizer, but during the growing season, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a month is sufficient. A balanced NPK compound fertilizer is a good choice. However, be careful not to use high-nitrogen fertilizer, as it will affect its fragrance!
VI. Pruning, Rosemary's "Beautician"Rosemary grows quickly, and timely pruning can maintain its beauty and health. Before new growth in the spring, you can give it a hard prune, keeping the main stem to about 15 cm to encourage new branch growth. After the flowering period, cut off the withered flowers and dead branches to keep the plant tidy.
VII. Pest and Disease Control, Rosemary's "Health Guardian"Although rosemary is relatively disease-resistant, you should still pay attention to pest and disease prevention. Common diseases are powdery mildew and root rot, and pests are mainly spider mites and scale insects. When you find pests or diseases, take timely measures, such as spraying sulfur suspension or using chili water to repel spider mites.
VIII. Overwintering, Rosemary's "Warm-Keeping Measures"Rosemary is quite cold-tolerant, but when the winter temperature drops below 5°C, it's best to move it to a semi-enclosed balcony to overwinter. This way, it can stay warm and still get some sunlight.
Dear friends, this is the complete guide to rosemary care! As long as you take good care of it, your rosemary will surely grow strong and be full of fragrance! Come on and give it a try, and fill your life with the fragrance of rosemary!