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Rosemary is a fragrant herb known for its culinary uses and delightful scent. Growing rosemary indoors as a houseplant allows you to enjoy its beauty and utility year-round. While it thrives outdoors, it can adapt well to indoor conditions with the right care. Here’s how to keep your rosemary houseplant healthy and thriving.
Rosemary loves sunlight and requires 6-8 hours of bright, direct sunlight daily. Place your plant in a south-facing window or the brightest spot in your home. If natural light is insufficient, supplement with a grow light to mimic the sun’s intensity.
Rosemary prefers consistent moisture but doesn’t like to sit in water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom. Ensure your pot has good drainage to prevent root rot. During winter, when growth slows, reduce watering frequency.
Rosemary thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly sandy texture. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or mix regular potting soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage. It prefers a slightly alkaline pH, so adding a bit of lime to the soil can be beneficial.
Rosemary grows best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It prefers dry air, making it well-suited to indoor environments. Avoid placing the plant in overly humid areas or near humidifiers. Keep your plant away from cold drafts, as it is sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
Rosemary is a light feeder and doesn’t require frequent fertilization. Feed your plant a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flavor in the leaves.
Pruning rosemary regularly helps maintain its shape and encourages bushy growth. Trim back the tips of the stems to promote branching, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. You can also harvest sprigs for cooking, which doubles as light pruning.
Rosemary grows slowly indoors and typically needs repotting every 1-2 years. Choose a pot slightly larger than its current one, with drainage holes, and refresh the soil to provide new nutrients. Repot in the spring to give the plant a fresh start for the growing season.
Rosemary is considered non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for homes with cats and dogs. However, it’s always a good idea to keep plants out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion or damage.