I have a love/hate relationship with my dear rosemary. I think I’ve killed at least three or four rosemary plants because they wouldn’t stay alive. Even though, I admit, I neglected one, I always understood rosemary to be able to handle neglect. In any case, I had to try a lot of different things to get to know her.
Rosemary is a staple item in the garden. Almost all people who like to cook have this beautiful plant, and for good reason (I’ve included my favorite, easy recipe at the end). For those that do not know, I am an herbalist; therefore my rosemary tends to serve multiple purposes. (Towards the end, I will also share one of my favorite rosemary-infused recipes for your hair. ).
I know people who can grow rosemary with the snap of a finger. There are others who struggle a little. I fall under the latter group. There are a lot of problems in Zone 9b, so I have to pay attention to the weather, like the heavy rain and humidity that we had a lot of this year. Much of my time is spent watching plants and how they react to weather patterns. In coastal areas, it’s easy for plants to get too much water, which makes them unhappy or even kills them.
Here are 5 things Ive learned to keep in mind when tending to my own rosemary plant.
With its pine-like fragrance and versatility in the kitchen, rosemary is a wonderful herb for home gardens. However, proper watering is key to keeping your rosemary plant healthy and thriving. It can be tricky to know exactly how often to water rosemary since its narrow needles don’t show distress like broad leaves. Follow these tips to determine the optimal watering frequency for your rosemary.
Factors That Affect Rosemary’s Water Needs
There are several variables that impact how often you should water rosemary
Plant Age
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Young plants need more frequent watering, about 2-3 times per week. Reduce frequency as plants mature.
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Established rosemary plants only need infrequent deep watering.
Pot vs. Ground
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Potted rosemary needs more frequent watering, about 1-2 times per week.
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In-ground rosemary can go longer between waterings, even weeks in some climates.
Climate and Season
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Hot and dry climates demand more summer irrigation.
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Cool and damp climates need less overall watering.
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Reduce watering frequency in winter when plants are dormant.
Soil Type
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Sandy soils require more frequent watering.
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Clay soils hold more moisture so rosemary needs less water.
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Improve drainage in heavy soils to reduce watering needs.
Best Practices for Watering Rosemary
Follow these tips to keep your rosemary hydrated just right:
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Water only when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. This is the best indicator it’s time to water again.
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Feel soil moisture before watering – don’t rely on a set schedule.
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Water deeply, never shallowly. Rosemary has deep roots.
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Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Never leave soil constantly soggy.
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Water at soil level, not from overhead. Rosemary dislikes wet foliage.
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Water in early morning to reduce evaporation loss.
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Add mulch to help retain soil moisture longer.
How Often to Water Rosemary in Pots
For potted rosemary:
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Check soil moisture 1-2 times per week by touching the surface.
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Water whenever top inch of soil is dry.
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During hot months, this means watering about every 5-7 days.
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In winter, scale back to once every 1-2 weeks when plant is dormant.
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Always pour off excess water in catch trays after watering.
How Often to Water Rosemary in the Ground
For in-ground rosemary:
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Established plants only need infrequent irrigation.
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Water deeply just 2-4 times per summer during heat waves and drought.
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In rainy climates, don’t water at all unless weeks pass without rainfall.
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Reduce watering frequency in cooler months.
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Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture longer.
Signs Your Rosemary Needs Water
Look for these cues that your rosemary is thirsty:
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Wilting or drooping leaves and stems
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Leaves appearing dried out or brittle
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Soil is dry 1-2 inches down
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Plant looks slightly diminished/deflated
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Grayish cast to foliage
Signs Your Rosemary is Overwatered
Rosemary hates wet feet. Watch for these signs of overwatering:
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Wilting leaves but soggy soil
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Lower leaves turning yellow
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Soft, mushy stems
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Few new shoots or slow growth
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Brown leaves or leaf drop
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Foul odor from rotten roots
When to Water Rosemary in Different Climates
Here are general watering guidelines based on climate:
Hot and Dry Climates
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Potted plants need watering 2-3 times per week.
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Established in-ground plants need monthly deep soaks.
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Monitor soil moisture and water when dry 1-2 inches down.
Temperate or Coastal Climates
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Potted plants need weekly watering.
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In-ground plants need water every 2-4 weeks in summer.
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Reduce frequency in rainy seasons.
Cool and Wet Climates
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Potted plants need water only when soil dries out.
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Mature in-ground plants rarely need supplemental water.
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Allow longer periods for soil to dry out between waterings.
The Best Way to Water Rosemary
Water rosemary thoroughly at soil level when the top layer of soil is dry. Avoid misting leaves or frequent shallow watering. Wet foliage encourages disease. Group plants with other Mediterranean herbs with similar watering needs. This allows you to water efficiently when their soil moisture is depleted.
With rosemary’s preference for infrequent deep drink, it’s easy to overdo it. Remember less is more with this drought-loving herb. Monitor soil moisture and embrace dry periods between waterings for a happy and healthy rosemary plant.
Plant Your Rosemary in the Ground
If you live in a warmer area where it doesn’t get below 30 degrees, you can plant a rosemary plant right in the ground and it will do very well. I mean, most plants prefer to be in the ground, right?.
However, if you live in a colder climate, putting rosemary in containers is a better option. You’ll need to bring it inside for the winter, but if you pull up a well-established rosemary plant that is rooted, it might not make it.
Talk to Your Rosemary Plant!
Honestly, I tell people this all the time, for all plants. It might sound weird, but it is something I have come to accept and practice. Interesting note, there has actually been a study around the effects of sounds on plants. This topic alone is a post for another day, but just trust me… talk to your rosemary.
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The Ultimate Guide: How Often to Water Rosemary Plants
FAQ
How often should you water potted rosemary?
Does rosemary need full sun?
Can rosemary be overwatered?
How often should Rosemary be watered?
It is especially true if the Rosemary is cultivated in a small, quickly drying pot. Rosemary planted in cooler temperatures, and overcast conditions may require only 1-2 weeks of watering. Water your indoor rosemary plants at least 1-2 times per week. Rosemary may only need watering in colder homes with low light levels every week or two.
How much rosemary should one take at a time?
It is recommended to use 4 to 6 grams of rosemary per day in the preparation of teas or food. The dry extract of 0. 3 to 1g daily, divided into 2 to 3 intakes and the essential oil 100 to 150 mg a day.
How much water does a Rosemary plant need?
For optimal growth, rosemary plants need around an inch of water each week. This amount can be adjusted based on the soil type, the weather, and what types of rosemary you’re growing. If you water it too much, it’s likely to develop root rot.
How do you water a Rosemary plant?
It depends on how you grow it, though. If you grow your rosemary directly in the ground, the best way to water it is to just pour the water on the soil around the plant. It is best to get as close to the soil as possible when you pour the water to avoid splashing soil onto the plant’s foliage.
