Sage

Climate and Growing Conditions

Sage is well-suited to Australia’s diverse climates, but it prefers:

Temperature:

• Sage thrives in warm, temperate climates.
• It can tolerate light frost but prefers temperatures between 15°C and 30°C.

Sunlight:

• Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) is ideal.

Soil:

• Well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Sage does not tolerate waterlogged soil.

Water:

• Sage is drought tolerant once established.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Starting Sage from Seed

Growing sage from seed requires patience, as it can be slow to germinate.

Seed Preparation:

• Sage seeds have a low germination rate.
• To improve success soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting.

Sowing Seeds:

• Fill seed trays or small pots with a seed raising mix.
• Sow seeds 5 mm deep.
• Lightly water the soil and cover the tray with a plastic dome or cling wrap to retain moisture.
• Place the tray in a warm, sunny spot (20-25°C is ideal).

Germination:

• Germination takes 2-3 weeks.
• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Once seedlings emerge, remove the cover and place them in a sunny location.

Transplanting:

• When seedlings are 5-7 cm tall and have at least two sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or the garden.
• Space plants 50 cm apart to allow for growth.

Caring for Sage Plants

 Watering:

• Water young plants regularly until established.
• Once mature, water sparingly.
• Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilising:

• Sage does not require heavy feeding.
• Apply a balanced, slow release fertiliser in spring, or top dress with compost.

Pruning:

• Prune sage regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.
• After flowering, cut back by one third to promote new growth.

Pests and Diseases:

 Sage is relatively pest resistant but can be affected by

 Whiteflies:

• Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

 Powdery Mildew:

• Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Harvesting Sage

• Begin harvesting once the plant is well established (usually 34 months after planting).
• Pick leaves as needed, preferably in the morning when the oils are most concentrated.
• For drying, harvest whole stems and hang them in a cool, dark place.

Companion Planting with Sage

Good Companions

Rosemary:

Both herbs have similar growing requirements and deter pests like carrot flies and cabbage moths.

Thyme:

Enhances sage’s flavour and repels harmful insects.

Cabbage Family (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Kale):

• Sage deters cabbage moths and other pests.

Carrots:

• Sage masks the scent of carrots, deterring carrot flies.

Tomatoes:

• Sage improves tomato flavour and repels whiteflies.
• Beans: Sage deters bean beetles.

Plants to Avoid

Cucumbers:

• Sage can inhibit their growth.
• Alliums (Onions, Garlic):
• These can stunt sage’s growth.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Sage

 Pest Control:

• Sage’s strong scent repels many common garden pests.

 Pollinator Attraction:

• Sage flowers attract bees and other pollinators.

 Soil Health:

• Sage’s deep roots help improve soil structure.

Common Problems and Solutions

 Leggy Growth:

• Prune regularly to encourage bushiness.

 Yellowing Leaves:

• Often caused by overwatering.
• Reduce watering and ensure good drainage.

 Poor Growth:

• Sage may struggle in heavy clay soils.
• Amend the soil with sand or compost.