All About Salvias: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Salvias, also known as ornamental sages, are a diverse group of plants that add beauty and fragrance to any garden. With their vibrant blooms and aromatic foliage, they attract pollinators and create a stunning visual display. Growing salvias is relatively easy, and with proper care, they will thrive for many years to come.
Types of Salvias
There are many different types of salvias, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types include:
- Annual salvias: These salvias are grown as vibrant summer bedding plants and discarded at the end of the season. Examples include Salvia farinacea, S. horminum, and S. splendens.
- Herbaceous perennial salvias: These salvias come back year after year and are hardy in most climates. Examples include Salvia nemorosa and Salvia x sylvestris.
- Tender perennial salvias: These salvias can come back year after year but are not completely hardy and may need protection over winter. Examples include Salvia greggii and Salvia microphylla.
- Shrubby salvias: These salvias have woody stems and are often evergreen in mild climates. Examples include Salvia x jamensis and Salvia microphylla.
How to Grow Salvias
Salvias are relatively easy to grow and can be planted in a variety of locations. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, but they can also tolerate partial shade and some drought conditions.
To plant salvias, simply dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the salvia in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the salvia deeply and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
Caring for Salvias
Salvias are generally low-maintenance plants, but they do require some basic care to thrive. Here are a few tips:
- Watering: Salvias are drought-tolerant, but they will produce more flowers if they are watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilizing: Salvias do not need to be fertilized heavily, but they will benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Deadheading: Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will encourage salvias to produce more blooms.
- Pruning: Salvias can be pruned back in the fall or spring to remove dead or damaged growth.
Problem-Solving
Salvias are generally pest- and disease-resistant, but they can occasionally be affected by problems such as:
- Capsid bugs: These small bugs can cause damage to salvia foliage, but they are not typically a serious problem.
- Slugs: Slugs can feed on salvia leaves, but they can be deterred by using slug bait or by planting slug-resistant varieties of salvias.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white powdery spots to appear on salvia leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best way to overwinter salvias? In mild climates, salvias can be left outdoors over winter with a layer of mulch around the base of the plant. In colder climates, salvias should be brought indoors and placed in a cool, dark location.
- Can salvias be grown in containers? Yes, salvias can be grown in containers, but they will need to be watered more frequently than salvias planted in the ground.
- What are the best salvias for pollinators? Some of the best salvias for pollinators include Salvia nemorosa, Salvia x sylvestris, and Salvia uliginosa.
With their vibrant blooms, aromatic foliage, and ease of care, salvias are a great addition to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow beautiful and healthy salvias that will provide years of enjoyment.
