Cutting Back Rosemary
I have never been successful in growing herbs except for a rosemary plant which is now 15 years old. It’s now very tall and I would like to cut it back but am not sure if it's been left too long to do that. Can you offer any advice please?
We are amazed to hear your rosemary bush has lasted 15 years! Usually, after 5-6 years they become very woody, often with little foliage remaining on the growing tips.
Firstly, take some semi-hardwood cuttings from this “wonder plant”. Make the cuttings around 50mm long and from the growing tip of the plant, then place them in pumice sand to root (grow roots).
Although your existing rosemary bush does need cutting back hard, you will need to wait until spring when it is coming into new growth. Then cut it back to approximately 200mm from ground level so that the renovated plant will have an attractive form when it grows back.
Remember that all herbs, including rosemary, grow best in a full sun position and in soil that is light and free draining. If you cannot achieve these conditions in your garden, try growing herbs in pots or containers instead. Always use good quality container or potting mixes such as Daltons Garden TimeTM Potting Mix or Outdoor Container Mix which is free-draining and contains all the nutrients the plant needs.
