The pruning of rosemary is a simple operation requiring minimal tools and knowledge. It’s a crucial part of caring for this plant, aiding in shape maintenance, promoting healthy growth, and enhancing its aromatic yields. Regular pruning prevents the formation of dry branches, stops the plant from becoming overly large, and invading other flowers’ space. Additionally, it adds an aesthetic aspect by giving the plant a tidy appearance. Pruning is vital for maintaining the plant’s health and ornamental value.
In this article, we will provide valuable information on how to properly prune this beloved aromatic plant.
When to Prune Rosemary
But when is the right time for rosemary pruning? This is a question often posed, especially since this flavorful and beneficial herb is commonly found in gardens, on terraces, or in many beginners’ balconies. Given its prevalence even among those not accustomed to regular cultivation and pruning, this question is more than valid. It’s advisable to lightly prune the Rosmarinus officinalis every year, either in early spring or early autumn, moments distant from intense cold.
How to Prune Rosemary
To properly prune rosemary, begin by cutting the plant’s dead and dry twigs, usually found in the less illuminated parts of the vegetation. If the shrub is overly voluminous, continue thinning out the excess parts, meaning overlapping branches, which often form a messy mass. When choosing branches to cut, it’s better to remove the older ones to keep the plant youthful. Follow the plant’s natural shape while pruning, keeping it well-organized and balanced. After thinning, finish the pruning with heading cuts on the longer branches outside the canopy, performing apical trims. Of course, all these interventions should be calibrated concerning the plant’s size, age, and the chosen growth habit. They’re not necessary for young and small plants. Some might prefer a freer and messier shape, in which case pruning can be limited to removing dry branches only.
Bush Rosemary Pruning
Pruning rosemary into a bush form aims to maintain the plant’s tidy and compact shape. First, cut away the oldest and most withered twigs at the base of the plant to stimulate new shoots’ growth. Then, remove branches hanging too low and cut longer branches to achieve a rounded form. To keep the bush very compact, pruning can be done multiple times a year.
Hedge Rosemary Pruning
Pruning rosemary into a hedge is essential for maintaining the plant’s shape and aesthetics. To do this correctly, change the way you cut compared to the bush form. Using sharp pruning shears, shorten the longer branches protruding from the sides to create a uniform line. Cut the sides, not the top. Additionally, it’s essential to thin out some branches that grow inward to allow light penetration. Regular and precise pruning will ensure your rosemary hedge looks compact and lush.
Standard Rosemary Pruning
Another cultivation form to consider for classic Rosmarinus officinalis is the standard form, which is achieved through pruning. To form a standard rosemary tree, when the plant is young, select a central stem and clean it with cuts at the bottom. As the stem lengthens and thickens, accompany it with pruning, allowing a beautiful crown to develop. Over time, you’ll have a proper trunk, perhaps a bit twisted, but undoubtedly sturdy and decorative.
How to Prune Potted Rosemary
Pruning potted rosemary is a relatively simple task. To keep it healthy, remember to trim its old and dry leaves. Start by cutting the branch tips to encourage new shoots and leaves. You can also remove intertwining branches to make it appear neater or thin out the canopy to allow light penetration. Before proceeding, ensure your shears are sharp to avoid damaging the leaves. Regarding when to prune potted rosemary, the timing can be the same as for plants in the ground. Of course, you can trim rosemary as needed if you require it for cooking.
What to Do with Pruning Offcuts?
Pruning rosemary generates a significant amount of plant material. The first thing you can do is dry it, store it in a paper bag, and then use it in cooking as an aroma. Also, propagating rosemary through the cutting technique we discussed in a dedicated article can be very interesting.
Rosemary Pruning: Further Reading
Technical sheet on rosemary – Virtual Library of Phoenix Landscape Plants.
