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Broadleaf Sage Growing Guide

What is Broadleaf Sage?

Broadleaf Sage is a popular shrubby perennial with broad silvery leaves and tiny lavender flowers. There are hundreds of varieties of salvia throughout the world but the common garden sage primarily has the highest medicinal properties. Sage is native to the Mediterranean region but grows well throughout the world. Many cultures used sage for meat preservation, a practice confirmed by research that discovered sage’s high antioxidant content. In 17th century China, sage was so valued in making infusions that traders would accept one bale of sage in trade for three bales of their tea leaves. Of all the culinary herbs, sage is perhaps the one with the widest variety of medicinal uses.

How to Start Growing Broadleaf Sage

Plant in early spring after the last frost in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 - 6.5. Keep seed in constant moisture with temperatures of at least 65°F. Seeds must be covered thinly. Do not cover very small seeds, but tightly press into the earth. Keep in full sun. Germination should take place within 2 - 3 weeks, and the germination rate will be naturally low. After about four years, sage begins to lose its potency and may need to be replanted from cuttings.

Did You Know?

Native Americans combined sage with animal grease to make a salve, with which they used to treat skin issues.

Our Favorite Sage to Grow

Broadleaf Sage Plant Spacing

In-Ground Planting

Row Spacing - 18 inches

Plant Spacing - 12 inches

Planting Depth - 1/4 inch

Raised Bed Planting

Row Spacing - 18 feet

Plant Spacing - 12 inches

Planting Depth - 1/4 inch

Broadleaf Sage Soil, Irrigation, & Fertilizer

Soil Requirements to Grow Broadleaf Sage

  • Loose, well-draining soil
  • pH between 5.5 and 6.5
  • Rich in organic materials
  • Good quality compost added to the soil

Broadleaf Sage Irrigation Requirements

Broadleaf Sage plants need at least 1 inch of water per week. Using drip irrigation is always recommended to be sure that your plants are getting moisture directly to their root system. If you’re using conventional overhead watering techniques, try and use something like the Dramm Watering Can and water and fertilize at the base of the plant to keep moisture off the leaves.

Raised Bed Fertilizer Schedule

Several Weeks Before Planting

Test your soil at your local extension office.

At Time of Planting

After adjusting soil pH to 5.5 – 6.5, mix 1 1/2 cups per 10 ft. of row or ¼ cup per plant of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil.

2 Weeks After Planting

1 cup Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement with 5 gallons of water. Each plant gets 1 quart of the solution next to the plant stem. Repeat every 4 weeks.

4 Weeks After Planting and Every 4 Weeks

¼ cup Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer per plant evenly spread around plant.

In-Ground Fertilizer Schedule

Several Weeks Before Planting

Test your soil at your local extension office.

At Time of Planting

After adjusting soil pH to 5.5 – 6.5, mix 1 1/2 cups per 10 ft. of row or ¼ cup per plant of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil.

2 Weeks After Planting

1 cup Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement with 5 gallons of water. Each plant gets 1 quart of the solution next to the plant stem. Repeat every 4 weeks.

4 Weeks After Planting and Every 4 Weeks

¼ cup Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer per plant evenly spread around plant.

Broadleaf Sage Pest & Disease Protection

Insects

Organic Controls

Horticulture Oil
Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Spider Mites, Thrips

Bug Buster-O
Aphids, Flea Beetles, Whiteflies, Moths, Armyworms

Monterey BT
Caterpillars, Cabbage Loppers

Take Down Garden Spray
Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Moths

Diatomaceous Earth
Cutworms, Ants, Slugs

Sluggo Plus
Slugs

Treat as needed using label instructions.

Common Diseases

Organic Controls

Complete Disease Control
Gray Mold, Leaf Spots, Anthracnose, Powdery Mildew

Treat as needed using label instructions.

Harvesting, Preserving, and Storing Broadleaf Sage

When & How To Harvest Broadleaf Sage

The leaves and stem is the part of the plant used. The best time to harvest sage is in the spring and early summer before it begins to flower. The leaves loose their fragrance and the medicinal qualities lessen after flowering. Harvest herbs in the morning, when the plant oils are at their peak. Prepare herb cuttings for use by gently washing and drying the foliage. If planning to preserve the herbs, check foliage for insects or eggs as well. Herbs can be dried or frozen for future use. Only harvest up to a third of the plant to allow it to continue to grow.

Storing & Keeping Broadleaf Sage

Lay whole leaves flat on a tray and place in a cool dark space to dry or you could place them in the freezer & once frozen put in freezer bags and store in the freezer. Dehydrating or freeze drying them is another option. Store dried leaves in a sealed jar in a cool dark area.

Come See Our Sage!

Broadleaf Sage Growing Tips & Tricks

Careful With Pregnancy

While broadleaf sage does have numerous medicinal uses, a pregnant or nursing mother should avoid using broadleaf sage. Sage can cause indigestion in some people. Please consult your physician before using.

Not Too Much Water

Mildew can cause yellow spots on leaves if there is moist weather, so try to keep leaves as dry as possible. Do not get developing leaves wet when watering, as it can encourage rot.

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