Hill Hardy

Rosemary commonly suffers from root rot and stem dieback when soil stays wet—watch for wilting plus blackened, mushy stems near the base. Improve drainage immediately (loosen soil and avoid overhead watering), then let the soil dry slightly between waterings; remove and discard any badly blackened stems to reduce spread. If you see gray, dusty growth or leaf spotting, thin for airflow and treat early with an appropriate fungicide labeled for herbs.

Harvest when plants are well established—typically after about 90–120 days from sowing—and when stems have enough usable length and the foliage feels fragrant when rubbed. Pick sprigs in the morning; for best regrowth, take no more than about one-third of the plant at a time and cut just above a leaf node. Continue harvesting through the growing season, but avoid heavy cuts late in the season so new growth can harden off.