Sage

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover with a new sprinkling of soil. Propagate 15-20°C. Germination takes up to 21 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers a light, moist, but well-drained soil in full sun in a sheltered position. Dislikes winter wet.

Cultivation

Growth occurs on new wood, pruning annually will improve flowering and extend their life. Best to prune just before new growth begins in mid-spring. Aim to remove about 1/3 of older wood in total. After pruning mulch and feed. Harvest leaves as required.