How to Grow Sage

Sage is perennial herb that can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Sow sage seed in the garden in late spring or start seed indoors as early as 6 to 8 weeks before the average last frost date in spring for transplanting out after the last frost. Sage can be started from cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or summer or from divisions in spring or fall.

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Description. Sage is a hardy perennial shrub--often woody--that can grow to about 24 inches tall, some varieties taller. Sage has oval- to lance-shaped, wrinkled, grayish-green leaves from 1 to 5 inches long. Several sage varieties have variegated leaves: purple, yellow, green, or green and white. Sage flowers in summer; flowers are commonly bluish-lavender and form in clusters on spikes.

Yield. Grow one sage plant per household.

Site. Plant sage in full sun; sage will tolerate partial shade but the flavor of leaves will be diminished. Grow sage in well-drained soil. Sandy loam is best but sage will grow in nearly poor soil as well. Sage prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.7.