Methods for Trimming Rosemary Plants to Enhance Their Appearance and Yield Large Amounts of Fresh Herbs
Rosemary, with its botanical name Rosmarinus, meaning "dew of the sea," is a popular herb known for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. This hardy plant thrives in USDA zones 7-9 and occasionally zone 6b, making it a low-maintenance choice for many gardeners.
To maintain a healthy and bushy rosemary plant, regular pruning is essential. Ideally, trimming back the succulent, green tips of the plant will keep it shaped and growing. This practice should be done using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, typically cutting 2 to 3 inches from the tips during the plant's active growing season in spring and summer. Regular pruning encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming woody and bare in patches.
When pruning, it's crucial to avoid severe pruning into old woody stems, as rosemary does not recover well from heavy cutting back. Instead, prune judiciously and sparingly, focusing on the green, not woody portions of the stem. If the plant is overgrown, cut it back by half.
For propagation, take 4-inch cuttings from flexible new growth rather than woody stems. Remove the lower leaves and root the cuttings either in water (changing it frequently) or directly in well-draining soil, optionally using rooting hormone to improve success. Keep soil slightly moist and provide bright, indirect light until new growth appears.
Additional pruning tips for maintaining continuous growth include regular harvesting or pruning to stimulate branching and keep the plant bushy rather than leggy. Pruning or harvesting in the morning after dew has evaporated can help preserve essential oils and flavour in the leaves. Avoid pruning into old wood that lacks leaves, as it usually won't regrow.
Pruning rosemary can also help keep the plant tidy and compact, or maintain a desired topiary shape. The best time to prune to control its shape and size is in late spring or early summer. Winter damage, such as broken tips or branches, can occur and require pruning to prevent disease.
By combining these practices — frequent light pruning for harvest and shape, plus selective use of new growth cuttings for propagation — you can maintain continuous healthy growth and multiply your rosemary plants successfully.
Heather Rhoades, the founder of an avid gardener platform, is a recipient of the Master Gardeners of Ohio Lifetime Achievement Award. Her passion for community and gardening shines through in her work, making her an invaluable resource for those looking to learn more about rosemary and other plants.
To ensure a healthy lifestyle for your rosemary plant, regular pruning is essential for maintaining a bushy shape and promoting new growth. Pruning can also help propagate new plants by taking 4-inch cuttings from flexible new growth.
