Grow gorgeous Sage plants from freshly harvested Salvia officinalis herb seeds. Sage produces large, tender, green leaves under mauve colored flowers. Popularly used as a medicinal herb and a culinary herb, Sage is a staple in creating that famous Thanksgiving dressing. Not only is it tasty, but it is easy on the eyes as well. These herb plants make an attractive flower that can be used in all sorts of areas in the yard. Grow Sage in pots & containers, use it as a border plant, and even in rock gardens as well. Attracting an array of beneficial insects, Sage will bring butterflies, bumblebees and even hummingbirds into the garden.
The uses of this popular herb are endless. You may even cut them for floral arrangements and bouquets, as well as wreaths and other crafty items too. Sage herbs are grown as perennial flowering herbs, meaning they will establish a deep root system, later wilting on the surface due to cold temperatures. After all danger of frost is gone, they will later return to life the following growing season.
Sowing The Seed
Sage seeds can be sown either indoors or outdoors. If started indoors, sow in peat pots, at a depth of 1/8” under topsoil. Allow direct light to reach the seeds, as this is crucial to successful germination. Direct sow or transplant entire peat pots outdoors, when the danger of frost has passed. (Check below for germination and growth habits.)
Growing Conditions
Sage will enjoy an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day, with temperatures of at least 60F to 70F or more. It enjoys dry to neutral soils that are well drained. To improve drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to any areas that consist of hard, compact soil. Water the seeds daily with a mist setting or other light water setting to avoid overwatering the seed.
Germination & Growth
Your Sage will begin to show life within as little as 7 to 21 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of about 24 inches tall and can take up a fair amount of space. Space each plant roughly 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Sage is not only a great additive to culinary dishes, but it makes an excellent flower as well. Use this herb to attract an array of beneficial insects as well, such as hummingbirds, butterflies and bumblebees.