As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can assure you that it is generally not recommended to cut rosemary back to the ground. Rosemary is a woody perennial herb that can be quite sensitive to harsh pruning. Cutting it back to the ground may result in the plant struggling to regrow or even dying.
However, if you are looking to control the size and shape of your rosemary plant, there are alternative methods you can use. One effective technique is to trim back the entire plant by about one-third of its height. This can be done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. By making the cuts in the succulent green stem portions, you will encourage new growth and help to maintain a compact and well-shaped plant.
When pruning rosemary, it is important to avoid cutting into the woody bottom section of each stem. Rosemary tends to have better regrowth from the green, leafy portions of the stems. Cutting into the woody sections may not stimulate new growth and can leave the plant looking unsightly.
To properly prune your rosemary, start by inspecting the plant and identifying the areas that need shaping or reducing in size. Then, using sharp pruning shears, make clean cuts just above a set of leaves or a node. This will encourage branching and new growth in that area. It is also recommended to remove any dead or damaged branches while you are pruning.
By following these pruning guidelines, you can effectively control the size and shape of your rosemary plant without risking its overall health. However, it is worth noting that rosemary is a relatively low-maintenance herb and does not require extensive pruning unless it has become very unruly.
In my personal experience, I have found that regular pruning of my rosemary plants helps to keep them compact and bushy. I typically trim them back by about one-third every year, usually in late spring after the last frost has passed. This allows the plants to recover and produce new growth before the colder months arrive.
While it is not advisable to cut rosemary back to the ground, regular and controlled pruning can help to keep your plants healthy and aesthetically pleasing. Remember to always use sharp and clean tools when pruning, and avoid excessive pruning during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
