Sage

Culinary sage prefers full sun and well-drained sandy loam around pH 6.0-7.0. Light compost is usually sufficient; prune gently to keep leafy growth while preventing the crown from staying wet.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

24 in

First harvest

1 years

Tips

• Plant culinary garden sage 18-24 inches apart with the crown at its nursery depth.
• Water new plants deeply, then let the top few inches dry between waterings once established.
• Avoid heavy fertilizer, which produces floppy growth with less concentrated flavor.
• Remove dead stems in spring but avoid hard cuts into bare wood; inspect for mildew in crowded growth.
• Harvest a few leaves at a time during establishment and avoid stripping the plant before winter.

Plant nursery stock, crowns or divisions at locally recommended times; hardiness and establishment vary.