Growing Sage: A Complete Guide -Growing, Planting, Care and Harvesting-

Garden sage is a very cost-effective and time-saving plant. It has such a strong taste that only a sprinkle is required to flavor a meal. Sage is also one of the few plants whose flavor grows stronger as the leaves grow larger. Sage leaves, unlike many other herbs, remain edible after the plant has bloomed. Sage is a popularly grown plant native to the Mediterranean regions. It belongs to the mint family. The plant has a strong spicy and fragrant smell that is bitter and astringent at the same time. Sage taste varies considerably based on the type cultivated and the region where it is grown. Native American societies frequently burn what they see as holy plants and utilize the smoke for clearing negativity and bringing calm to their homes. Feng shui practitioners think that sage is a lucky plant that will bring good fortune to the residence. White sage, sweetgrass, and other plants are commonly used in the ritual of sage burning. This is referred to as smudging. Fresh sage leaves have a lot more flavor than dried sage, which sometimes has a medicinal taste. It thrives in a variety of climates and growing conditions. Sage may be harvested long into late October in most zones since it is an evergreen aromatic herb.

How to Grow Sage

· Where to Plant Sage

Sage can grow nearly anyplace, but it produces the best-tasting leaves when exposed to direct sunshine. This evergreen shrub grows well in pots and containers. It prefers well-drained garden soil. Sage requires sandy, loamy, well-draining soil to thrive. For best results, keep the pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If you’re growing for culinary purposes, don’t overfertilize; while you’ll gain faster growth, you’ll lose taste intensity. Mix in organic matter and sand to improve drainage if you’re growing in clay soil.

· When to Plant Sage

When sown from seed, sage can be difficult to grow, but it is relatively easy to grow through cuttings or layering. Transplant immature sage plants immediately when the ground temperature reaches 65°F, one to two weeks before the final frost. Sage thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can also be grown in pots or inside; if you’re growing it indoors, make sure it’s near a sunny window. Your sage will be a hardy perennial if you reside in zones 5 to 8. It will most likely be an annual if you live in humid zones nine or farther south, as it does not handle summer warmth and temperature well.

· Growing Sage from Cuttings

If you want to grow sage from seed, keep in mind that it will take several years to develop completely. Sow seeds inside for 6–8 weeks before the final frost under a plant light. It will take three weeks for sage seeds to germinate, after which you may transfer seedlings to your prepared soil. You may also layer or propagate new plants from previous cuttings.

· Growing Sage from Layering

Using wire, securely tie a long sage stem along with the earth, leaving four inches of the tip free. Ensure that the pinned section is in direct contact with the earth. Within a month, roots will begin to develop along the stem. Remove the freshly rooted plant from the parent plant and place it in a large container or somewhere in the garden.

Growing Condition for Sage Plant

• Give your sage plants full sun for a healthy plant. They can tolerate some afternoon shade, but they require some light or wind to dry the moisture off the leaves and avoid rotting.
• Culinary sage needs soil that thrives wet but drains well. It can withstand soil that is fairly alkaline. It doesn’t care about the type of soil as long as it’s well-drained.
• Sage is a drought-tolerant plant that dislikes standing in water. If the leaves are left to stay wet for long periods of time, mildew will develop, so water is just as needed.
• The more beautiful kinds of sage, such as golden, purple, and multicolored sage, are hardier than common sage.
• Sage thrives in a warm, sunny environment, but not in severe temperatures.
• Don’t use too much fertilizer. In the spring, it’s preferable just to side dress with organic materials.

How to Care for Sage Plant

Sage is a low-maintenance plant that requires little attention. It has a lengthy growth season and is one of the few plants whose taste strength does not diminish after flowering. It isn’t vulnerable to many pests, and mildew is usually the main thing to worry about, which you may avoid by not overwatering. Sage should be pruned back in the early spring. To keep your next-season leaves fresh and delicious, cut through the woody, thick stems. Clip slightly above the point where two leaves meet on the plant. After the dew has dried, harvest your sage in the morning. Harvest gently throughout the first year of growth to promote complete growth.

How to Harvest Sage

Both young and adult sage leaves may be harvested and used, although the flavor of the baby leaves is excellent. Make sure to leave a few stalks alone while harvesting to allow the plant to regenerate. Harvesting should be limited in the fall and winter to allow plants to prepare for a robust spring. Harvest the first year after planting; simply cut off the leaves if necessary. Harvest sprigs from sage by cutting a stem above the woody portion of the stem.

How to Store and Dry Sage Plant

Use fresh sage for the most aromatic and strong taste. You may, however, dry it for later use or beverages. When using dried sage, keep in mind that the flavor will be considerably stronger. It’s easy to dry sage leaves at home. Tie your cuttings together in tiny bunches, leaving the leaves on the stems. Hang upside down until bunches are dry. Remove the leaves from the stems and keep them intact in an airtight container.