Sage Garden Guide

Sage Stat Summary

Plant Spacing: 18-24" (457-609 mm)
Row Spacing: 18-24" (457-609 mm)
Planting Depth: 1/4" (6 mm)
Plants Per Person: 1
Soil Temperature: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
Days to Emergence: 14-21
Recommended Soil PH: 6.0-7.0
Seed Indoors: 8 weeks before transplanting
Earliest Outdoor Planting: Around Last Frost
Can direct seed outdoors
Can seed indoors

Planting Sage

Sage does best in full sun in average light soil with a neutral pH (6.0); most importantly the soil must drain well. Sage can be grown from seed, but it takes about 2 years to product good-size plants; most gardeners begin with plants. Space plants or thin seedlings to 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart.

Growing Sage

Water well until plants are established,after that, sage is drought tolerant. Cut sage back by 1/3 each spring to promote new growth.

Harvesting and Storing Sage

Pinch leaves off as needed, especially until the flowers, which are edible, open. Cut back the flower stems after blooming to encourage more foliage growth. Harvested leaves only last a short while in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. For long-term storage, dry by spreading leaves in a single layer or hanging a bunch in a dry location out of direct sunlight. When completely dry, seal in a glass jar and store in a dark place. Sage keeps its flavor better if stored in the freezer; freeze leaves or stalks on a tray, then move the leaves into a zippered bag or container.

Sage Insect and Disease Information

Sage is seldom bothered by pests and diseases.

Sage Yield Information

The leaves of a sage plant can be picked the entire season. In year two the sage plant will be even more vigorous than the first year.