Bed Preparation

Salvia varieties prefer full sun and well-drained soil. As perennials, they slowly spread out and take up more area as they mature from year to year, so choose a spacious location where the plant can thrive over time in a bed with other perennial flowers or perennial herbs. Salvias thrive in a hot or cool, dry environment.

Planting

Sow seeds in flats indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Soaking seeds can aid in germination, but is not necessary for good results. Transplant in mid to late spring. Perennial to zones 4-8. Water lightly to moderately.

Harvest

For flowering salvias, harvest flowers regularly and deadhead any that have passed their prime. For culinary and medicinal varieties, harvest leaves in the second year of growth, or sparingly in the first year.

Storage

Hang dry in bundles or screen dry. Once completely dried, store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.