Why You Should Grow Sage In Your Garden. Learn How To Plant And Care For Your Sage And You'll

Cover Salvia Gardening Australia Fasci Garden (1880x1142)

Table of Contents

1. What is Salvia?
2. When to Plant Salvia Seeds
3. How to Plant Salvia Seeds
4. How to Care for Salvia Plants
5. How to Harvest Salvia Seeds

What is Salvia?

Salvia is a genus of plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is commonly known as sage, and there are over 900 species of Salvia plants. Salvia plants are known for their brightly colored flowers and aromatic leaves, and they attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden.

Types of Salvia Plants

There are many different types of Salvia plants, but some of the most popular include:

• Salvia officinalis: Also known as common sage, this is the type of sage that is commonly used in cooking.
• Salvia splendens: This is a popular ornamental plant that is commonly used in garden beds and borders.
• Salvia divinorum: This is a psychoactive plant that is native to Mexico. It is not commonly grown in gardens.

When to Plant Salvia Seeds

The best time to plant Salvia seeds is in the spring or early summer, after the last frost has passed. Salvia plants prefer warm weather, and they will not germinate in soil that is too cold.

If you live in a colder region, you can start the seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them outside once the weather warms up. This will give the plants a head start and help ensure that they have enough time to mature before the first frost of the fall.

How to Plant Salvia Seeds

Planting Salvia seeds is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Salvia plants prefer full sun and soil that is not too wet.
2. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and loosening the top layer of soil.
3. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and cover them with soil.
4. Water the soil lightly to keep it moist, but not too wet.
5. Wait for the seeds to germinate, which usually takes 1-2 weeks.

How to Care for Salvia Plants

Once your Salvia plants have germinated and started to grow, they will need some basic care to thrive:

• Watering: Salvia plants prefer soil that is moist but not too wet. Water them deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is very hot and dry.
• Fertilizing: Salvia plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer once or twice a season.
• Pruning: Salvia plants benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Prune them back by about one-third in the early spring before new growth appears.
• Pest and disease control: Salvia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but you should keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids and spider mites. If you notice any problems, treat them promptly with an organic insecticide or fungicide.

How to Harvest Salvia Seeds

Harvesting Salvia seeds is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps:

1. Wait for the flowers to fade and the seedpods to dry out. The seedpods will turn brown and split open when they are ready.
2. Remove the seedpods from the plant and place them in a paper bag.
3. Shake the bag gently to release the seeds from the pods.
4. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.

Conclusion

Growing Salvia from seed is a rewarding and easy way to add color and fragrance to your garden. With a little bit of planning and care, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy Salvia plants all season long. Remember to choose a sunny location with well-draining soil, plant the seeds at the right time, and provide your plants with the proper care and maintenance they need to thrive. Happy gardening!