Overwatering in Rosemary
Rosemary is an aromatic Mediterranean shrub used extensively in cooking
Rosemary care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to overwatering in Rosemary. Check each one as a potential cause.
Symptoms to look for in Rosemary
Leaves turn brown or grey and drop, sometimes with a general wilted appearance despite wet soil, and stems can become soft at the base.
Common causes in Rosemary
Rosemary is adapted to dry, rocky Mediterranean hillsides and has very low water needs — watering on anything like a typical garden schedule, especially in heavier soil, is the most common way to lose this plant.
How to diagnose overwatering in Rosemary
Push finger 2 inches into soil. If wet, overwatering is occurring.
How to treat overwatering in Rosemary
Stop watering and let the soil dry out significantly before resuming, and if in heavy soil, consider moving to a raised bed or container with excellent drainage.
Preventing overwatering in Rosemary
Allow soil to dry out between waterings, and plant in sandy, well-draining soil rather than rich, moisture-retentive garden beds.