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Tuscan Blue Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Tuscan Blue’) is a popular variety of rosemary that is well-loved for its upright growth, aromatic foliage, and beautiful blue flowers. This plant is perfect for adding flavor to your cooking, a fragrant scent to your garden, or even an attractive ornamental shrub. Here’s a care guide to keep your Tuscan Blue Rosemary healthy and thriving:

1. Light Requirements​

• Sunlight: Tuscan Blue Rosemary thrives in full sun and needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in bright, sunny spots, which helps it develop strong aromatic oils and robust foliage.
• Too much shade can cause leggy growth and a less flavorful herb.

2. Watering​

• Moderate watering is key. Rosemary is drought-tolerant once established but still needs regular watering, especially when first planted.
• Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be sure not to let it sit in waterlogged soil. Rosemary does not like soggy roots.
• Water at the base to avoid getting the foliage wet, which can lead to mildew or fungal issues.
• During cooler months or when the plant is dormant, reduce watering.

3. Soil​

• Rosemary prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0).
• Sandy or loamy soil is ideal, but if your soil retains water too long, consider planting it in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.
• Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot, so avoid heavy, clayey soil.

4. Fertilizing​

• Rosemary is relatively low-maintenance in terms of feeding. Too much fertilizer can actually reduce the plant’s flavor and aroma.
• Light fertilizing once in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer is sufficient.
• If growing in containers, use a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to maintain nutrient levels.

5. Pruning​

• Prune regularly to maintain a neat shape and encourage bushier growth. This also helps prevent the plant from becoming too woody and leggy.
• Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems throughout the year.
• If you’re growing it as a shrub, you can shape it as desired, but avoid cutting back into the old wood, as rosemary doesn’t regenerate well from old, bare wood.
• Prune after it blooms, as this will allow the plant to focus on new growth.

6. Temperature and Humidity​

• Tuscan Blue Rosemary is hardy in USDA zones 8-10, but it can tolerate colder temperatures down to around 20°F (-6°C) if protected. In cooler climates, consider growing it in containers that can be moved indoors during the winter.
• Ideal temperature range: 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
• Humidity: Rosemary prefers dry to moderate humidity and does not tolerate overly damp or humid conditions, which can promote fungal diseases.

7. Pests and Problems​

• Common pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can occasionally attack rosemary. If you notice these pests, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water or an insecticidal soap.
• Powdery mildew: Overly moist conditions can lead to powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity around the plant.
• Root rot: Poor drainage is the main cause of root rot in rosemary, so always ensure the plant is not sitting in water.

8. Container Gardening​

• Tuscan Blue Rosemary grows well in containers, which is perfect for people in cooler climates or those with limited garden space.
• Use a well-draining potting mix and choose a container with good drainage holes.
• Ensure the plant gets enough sunlight, and water regularly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

9. Winter Care​

• In colder climates, bring your rosemary indoors before the first frost. Place it in a sunny window or under grow lights to mimic its natural light requirements.
• Water sparingly indoors during the winter, as rosemary is not actively growing and doesn’t need as much moisture.
• If growing outdoors, consider mulching around the base of the plant to protect it from frost, or cover it with a frost cloth during extreme cold spells.

10. Harvesting​

• Harvest rosemary as needed throughout the growing season. The leaves are most aromatic just before the plant blooms.
• Snip off sprigs using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Only take up to one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stressing the plant.
• You can dry rosemary by hanging it upside down in a dry, well-ventilated space or by using a dehydrator.

11. Propagation​

• Rosemary can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 4-6-inch cuttings from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and place them in moist soil or water.
• Rooting in water is quick, and once the roots form, you can transplant the cutting into soil.
• Alternatively, layering (burying a section of stem while it’s still attached to the parent plant) can also work for propagation.

By following these care guidelines, your Tuscan Blue Rosemary will be a healthy, aromatic, and beautiful addition to your garden or kitchen!

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