Salvias are very easy to grow plants that will tolerate dry conditions once established. When you receive your plants you should move them in to their final positions as soon as possible. If you cannot plant immediately, ensure your plants are watered and keep them moist and in a cool and bright space until planting is possible.

Position

Salvias will appreciate a spot in sun with some shelter from the hot mid-day sun. Many plants, including some of the larger sages, look great at the front of the border and some of the taller growing plants produce wiry stems which can be left in place to view other plants through or alternatively you can prune stems back with Ratcheting Pruners to promote bushier growth. Smaller sages make for excellent bedding plants and look especially good in window boxes, containers and hanging baskets.

Soil

Salvias are not fussy when it comes to soil although plants will do best on a soil that is fertile, well-drained and moist. Heavy soils can be improved with the addition of organic matter, such as well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose compost, and grit.

Care

Water your new plants well after planting to help them establish well. Plants will benefit from regular watering for the first few weeks in site and you may also wish to add a mulch of well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose compost in the spring each year as this will help to encourage good growth, conserve water and keep roots moist throughout summer. An application of general fertilizer  or liquid seaweed feed during the growing season and after flowering will help to promote strong and healthy plant growth. Once established these plants will tolerate periods of drought in Summer. Remove fading flowers and add them to the compost bin.  

Top Tip

Some Salvias are half-hardy perennials. As an insurance against hard winters you can take cuttings and place these in a cool greenhouse or coldframe.