How To Grow Sage Outdoors

How to Grow Sage Outdoors

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a popular culinary herb that is easy to grow outdoors. With its distinct earthy flavor and aromatic leaves, sage can be used fresh or dried to enhance a variety of dishes. Here are the essential aspects you need to know to successfully grow sage outdoors:

Choosing a Location

Sage prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. The plant should receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid planting sage in areas that are prone to waterlogging.

Planting Sage

Sage can be grown from seed or cuttings. If starting from seed, sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Transplant the seedlings outdoors when they are 2-3 inches tall. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart. If planting from cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from a healthy sage plant in the spring or summer. Root the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and transplant them outdoors when they are established.

Watering and Fertilizing

Sage is a drought-tolerant plant, but it will benefit from regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Fertilize sage sparingly, if at all. Too much fertilizer can encourage lush growth and reduce the flavor of the leaves.

Pruning

Prune sage plants regularly to encourage branching and prevent them from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of the stems in the spring to promote bushy growth. Sage can also be pruned after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage new growth.

Harvesting

Sage can be harvested throughout the growing season. The leaves can be used fresh or dried. To harvest fresh sage, simply snip off the leaves as needed. To dry sage, cut the stems and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place until the leaves are crispy. Store dried sage in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Troubleshooting

Sage is a relatively easy plant to grow, but it can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids and spider mites can be a problem, especially in hot, dry weather. Control these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Sage can also be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Treat powdery mildew with a fungicide.