Harvest Type

Continuous as needed.  Snip branches or leaves for drying or use them fresh.

TIP: Generally, sage is a perennial, and they will root from a cutting. You can propagate sage as you need it.

Transplant / Direct Sow

Direct sow seeds in the garden or a container when the soil temperature is around 70°F and after the last average frost date. You can also sow seeds in a tray indoors 6-8 weeks before your average last frost date and then transplant them outdoors when it's warm.

When to Plant:

In spring, plant sage seeds outdoor when the soil temperature is 70°F. If you plant them in a container, you can winter the plants in a garage or shed.

Days to germinate

It takes sage seeds about 10-21 days to germinate.

Days to maturity

It takes about 37-80 days for plants to mature.

Planting Depth

Plant seeds at 1/8" deep or broadcast them to the soil or container and then lightly cover them with soil.

TIP: Sage seeds are small, and they like to be warm. It is easier to broadcast seeds and then dust them with fine soil to cover them.

Germination Temperature Range

Sage is a hardy plant that likes to grow when the soil is 70°F or warmer.

Spacing Between Plants

Sage is big and sprawling. Plant or thin seedlings to 18-24" inches.

Growing conditions

Sage likes average soil. Keep it well-drained and top off each year with compost. Water sage consistently but allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings.

Companion Plants

Tomato, woody herbs, such as rosemary, cucumber, peas, sunflowers, thyme, and basil, make excellent companion plants for sage.

Rotation

There is no need to rotate sage. Just dress the container or soil with aged compost each year, or use a water-soluble fertilizer and lightly fertilize.

Tip: Sage loses its flavor the more you fertilize. So, don't be afraid to let it struggle.

Anticipated yields

Plan your garden yield at 1-2 sage plants per family of four. During the first year, harvest lightly. Pinch leaves back and use them fresh or dry them. In the second year, you can take up to 1/4 of the plant, but never more, or the plant will die. Harvest from spring-summer and cease harvesting in the fall. The plants will need to harden off for winter. Expect 3-5 cups of fresh leaves per plant 1-2 times per year.

 

Family Sown collections with sage seeds: