Green Logs

Plant guide

Rosemary

ローズマリー

Watering rhythm

Every 10–14 days

About this plant

Rosemary is a hardy evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, prized for its fresh, aromatic fragrance. It's remarkably easy to grow and doubles as both a culinary herb and a source for aromatherapy. Because it thrives in dry conditions, the main thing to watch for is overwatering—too much moisture can quickly lead to root rot.

Placement & environment

Rosemary loves bright light and does best with at least 4 hours of direct sun daily. It prefers temperatures between 5–25°C (41–77°F); growth stops below freezing. Keep humidity low and ensure good air circulation—this plant really appreciates a breezy spot.

Seasonal watering rhythm

Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.

Watering rhythm

Water when the soil surface feels dry, but avoid soggy conditions at all costs. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty any water sitting in the saucer. If the leaves look slightly wilted, that's your signal to water. During winter, be especially restrained—it's perfectly fine to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

Common troubles

Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.

SymptomLikely causeWhat to try
Plant is dying with rotted rootsOverwatering or poor drainage in the soil is the culprit, especially in winter when the plant needs very little moisture.Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim away any blackened, mushy roots, then repot into fresh soil and move the plant to a drier spot.
Leaves turning yellow and droppingThis can stem from underwatering, ongoing root rot, or insufficient light.Check both the soil moisture and how much light your plant is getting. If root rot seems likely, consider repotting. Move the plant to a brighter location to improve conditions.
Lower leaves browning and dropping offExcessive moisture, poor air circulation, or natural aging can all cause this.Remove the dead leaves and improve ventilation around the plant. A light trim in spring can help reshape the plant and give it a fresh start.
Visible pests (spider mites or scale insects)Very dry air or poor housekeeping can invite infestations.Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove the insects and improve air circulation. For larger infestations, consider using an appropriate insecticide.
Fragrance fading and plant looking weakThe plant is likely struggling from too little light or insufficient nutrients.Move it to your brightest spot, and feed with a general houseplant fertilizer once or twice a month from spring through fall.

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