Why rosemary dies in many Indian homes, and the simple changes that can help this fragrant herb flourish instead

The biggest mistake beginners make is assuming rosemary behaves like mint or coriander. It does not.

Rosemary evolved in rocky, dry regions where rainwater drains away quickly and roots rarely stay wet for long. In India, it grows best in places with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation. Hill stations naturally provide favourable conditions, but even in cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, or Chandigarh, rosemary can do well in pots if its roots are protected from standing water.

Instead of focusing only on watering schedules, pay attention to the soil. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy rosemary plant. If the leaves begin turning yellow while the soil remains wet, the problem is often too much water rather than too little.