Salvia is a versatile and captivating plant found all over the world. With a rich history of medicinal and herbal use spanning centuries, it offers so much more than its seasoning properties. As part of the mint family, salvia leaves exude a delightful aroma. While they are perennials in their natural habitat, they are cultivated as annuals in our climate.
Ornamental Annual Salvias
Ornamental salvias are renowned for their striking floral spikes, bursting with vibrant flowers. These gorgeous blooms not only captivate humans but also attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Your garden will come alive with these delightful visitors seeking nectar and pollen. Salvia cultivars come in various sizes, ranging from 1 to 5 feet tall.
Good Performers
The University of Minnesota flower trials and research have identified several annual salvia cultivars that excel in performance. These top-rated varieties include White Flame, Purple & Bloom, Interspecific Big Blue, Victoria Blue, Mystic Spires Improved, Rockin’® series, and Sallyfun™ series.
Growing Salvia Outdoors
To ensure the best results, avoid planting salvias in containers due to their large size. Instead, create flourishing garden beds for them. Wait until the soil temperature surpasses 55 degrees Fahrenheit before planting salvia outdoors.
Remember the following guidelines when choosing the ideal spot for your salvias:
- Provide at least 8 hours of full sun daily.
- Ensure well-drained soil, as salvias prefer drier conditions. You can incorporate compost or sand into heavy soil to improve drainage.
- Maintain a soil pH of 6-7.
At the time of planting, add a general-purpose fertilizer containing equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Incorporate the fertilizer into the soil through watering or natural rainfall. During the summer, salvias generally do not require additional fertilization. However, a monthly half-rate fertilization can enhance the number of blooms.
While salvias need regular watering, they are remarkably drought-tolerant and thrive in slightly dry soil. Lightly water the plants when the top two inches of soil are dry. Pest and disease issues are rare with these resilient plants. To encourage abundant blooms and healthy growth:
- Clip off old flower spikes to stimulate new flower growth.
- If your plants appear overgrown or lack abundant flowers, trim them back in mid-summer. They will regrow, resulting in fresh foliage and more blooms.
- Keep your garden soil surface free of debris to prevent the growth of diseases.
Starting Salvia Seeds Indoors
If you prefer to start salvia seeds indoors, you can do so approximately nine weeks before the anticipated outdoor planting date. Regardless of the species, the same techniques apply. Use a specialized growing medium designed for seed germination. Follow these steps for successful seed propagation:
- Gently place the seeds on the growing medium and cover them with vermiculite.
- Keep the seeds moist by using a plastic cover over the seeding tray.
- Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days at a temperature of 70-75°F.
- After germination, maintain a temperature of 60-65°F during both day and night.
- Allow the growing medium to slightly dry out between waterings to prevent seedlings from dampening off.
Salvia: A Pollinator’s Paradise
Salvias are nature’s magnets for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds can’t resist their allure. If you’re looking to create a pollinator garden, incorporating salvias is a wonderful choice. However, remember to provide other resources to support these important creatures. Follow these tips for a lively and thriving garden:
- Situate a water source nearby, such as a birdbath, to provide a landing and drinking spot for pollinators.
- Create habitats for pollinators by using bee boxes or small piles of brush or old wood in or near the garden. These will serve as homes for pollinators.
- Leave some bare soil in the garden for ground-nesting pollinators to burrow into.
Salvias bring an explosion of color and life to any garden. With their captivating blooms, delightful fragrance, and ability to attract pollinators, they are a wonderful addition to any outdoor space. Embrace the beauty of salvia and create a thriving and vibrant garden!
