Salvia
Indefatigable bloomer, Scarlet sage (Salvia splendens) is a tender perennial that is mostly grown for its dense, usually brilliant scarlet flowers although new selections include attractive shades of rich purple, pink, blue, lavender, salmon, white and bicolor.
Planting Difficulty | ★ | |
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Planting Season | spring; flowering from March to September | |
Soil Requirements | Loose and fertile sandy soil rich in humus and well-drained | |
Watering | Keep wet but no water accumulation | |
Lighting |
Full sunlight
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Propagation | Cutting | |
Pruning | Slight trim after blooming | |
Fertilization |
Topdressing 1-2 times a month during the growing season, and thin fertilizer
mainly containing phosphorus should be applied 1-2 times before flowering. |
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Pest and Disease Control | Corner spot, red spiders, powdery mildew, scallops, rust |
Interesting Facts Nabat
- Prized by gardeners for its ornamental blossoms, it has an outstanding effect in beds, borders, containers from late spring to frost!. A valuable addition to cottage gardens, cutting gardens and effective for edging too! Best in mass plantings with other annuals.
- Easy to grow, fairly pest and disease free, it requires little deadheading, attracts butterflies and blends nicely with any other annuals or perennials for the best effect!
- Typically grows in clumps up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm) in a wonderful display of very eye-catching, long-tubed, brightly-colored flowers rising in thick, erect spikes above the dark green foliage.
- May be grown from seeds, starting indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last spring frost date.
- Thrives in full sun in light, humus-rich, moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils.
- Perennial in zones 10 – 11, it may be grown as an annual in cooler areas.