How do I make rosemary grow bushier?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.To create bushy rosemary plants, you will need to use some strategic pruning techniques to induce lateral branching. Gently pinch stem tips throughout the spring and summer when the plants are actively growing. Pinch only green stems that bend flexibly, and avoid any woody branches that will not regrow as well. This will help create naturally bushy foliage.
Early Spring
- Pinch back new growth by 1-2 inches
- Remove winter-damaged stems completely
- Shape plant structure before rapid growth
Summer Maintenance
- Trim stem tips after each harvest
- Never exceed one-third of new growth
- Cut just above leaf nodes for branching
Fall Preparation
- Light shaping only no major cuts
- Remove leggy stems compromising form
- Avoid stimulating tender late growth
I transformed my rosemary with regular pinching every three weeks. I schedule pruning days in my calendar to ensure regular attention. At every cut, plants re-sprouted more than one shoot. I achieved a triple leaf density compared to unpruned individuals after a single growing season.
Sharp bypass pruners (rather than anvil pruners) produce clean cuts that will heal quickly. To prevent the spread of diseases, sterilize your pruners with alcohol between plants. Always make angled cuts just above the leaf nodes where new branches will grow. This careful pruning encourages bushier branch growth than ragged tearing does.
Pair pruning with good sunlight and nutrition. Ensure at least six hours of direct sunlight every day for optimal growth. Additionally, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during periods of active growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen formulas, as they can create leggy, weak stems instead of short, bushy ones.
Read the full article: 7 Essential Steps: How to Grow Rosemary Perfectly
