Want to grow your own sage?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you can have a thriving sage plant in your garden. Discover 7 simple and effective ways to grow sage outdoors.
Ready to get planting?
Let’s go!
Choose the Right Spot
Sage loves the sun, so pick a spot in your garden that gets plenty of direct light. Think of it as giving your sage a sunny vacation spot.
It needs about 6 to 8 hours of sunlight a day to thrive. Also, make sure the area has good drainage.
Sage doesn’t like to get its feet wet, so avoid places where water tends to pool.
Prepare the Soil
Sage isn’t too picky about soil, but it does best in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can add some compost to enrich the soil and help with drainage.
If your soil tends to be heavy and clay-like, consider mixing in some sand to loosen it up. Your sage will thank you!
Planting Sage
Now it’s time to plant. You can start with seeds or get a small plant from a nursery.
If you’re using seeds, plant them about 1/4 inch deep and 18-24 inches apart. If using a young plant, dig a hole deep enough to cover its roots and give it some space to grow.
Pat the soil gently around it and water well.
Watering Routine
Sage is pretty low-maintenance when it comes to water. During its growing season, give it a good soak when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Be careful not to overwater. Once established, sage is drought-tolerant and can handle some dry spells.
Less is often more when it comes to watering sage.
Pruning and Harvesting
Prune your sage regularly to keep it healthy and bushy. Snip off the top few inches of growth once in a while.
When it comes to harvesting, feel free to pick leaves as you need them. Just make sure to leave enough behind for the plant to keep growing strong.
Fresh sage is best, but you can also dry it for later use.
Dealing with Pests
Good news—sage is pretty pest-resistant! However, keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids or spider mites.
If you spot any, a splash of water or insecticidal soap usually does the trick. Keeping your plants healthy with good air circulation can also help fend off any unwanted visitors.
Overwintering
If you live in a colder climate, your sage might need a little extra care in the winter. Mulch around the base with straw or leaves to help insulate the roots.
In really harsh climates, consider bringing potted sage indoors or using a garden fabric to cover and protect your plants from frost.