Plant Passport
Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP SALV IARO SMAR
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Rosemary
Rozemarijn
Salvia rosmarinus
Also known as Rosmarinus officinalis
“Sun, air and dry roots keep my needles fragrant; indoor warmth is the hard part.”
pet safeherbediblefragrantdrought tolerantbalcony friendly
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Pet safety
- Pet safe
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Placement
- Best in a sunny balcony pot or cool bright kitchen window with strong airflow; outside in the Netherlands, harden it off and protect it from cold nights.
- Temperature
- -5–32°C
- Humidity
- low
Free printable Plant Passport card
Print, cut, and place this Rosemary card in the pot. Add the physical card if you want the finished version.
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Plant Passport
Rosemary
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
Use the card section above when you are ready to download or add a printed card.
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water deeply, let the pot drain, then wait until the mix has dried clearly before the next round.
Soil Mix
gritty Mediterranean herb mix with excellent drainage and a deep pot
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above -5 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
South, south-west or the brightest east window; filter scorching summer glass when needed.
Best Room
a sunny balcony pot or cool bright kitchen window with strong airflow
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Rosemary closer to the brightest indirect position before autumn light drops Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic leaves, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Woody upright stems with narrow needle-like aromatic l.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 8 days
- Winter
- Every 18 days
Feel well into the mix; water only when it has dried clearly.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Rosemary with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Rosemary moved into the Salvia genus, but the old Rosmarinus name still appears on many plant labels.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native to Mediterranean coastal scrub, where bright sun, wind and mineral soils keep growth compact and aromatic.
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