How to Grow Broadleaf Sage

Starting Sage Indoors

• 1

  Start seeds indoors at least eight weeks before the last expected frost for your location.

• 2

  Fill the seed tray cells with slightly moistened potting mix, then sow 1 to 2 seeds per cell at a depth of at least 1/8 inch.

• 3

  Place the lid on the tray, and set the tray in a location that offers full sunlight and temperatures of at least 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Sage takes up to three weeks to germinate and sprout.

• 4

  Mist the soil with water in a spray bottle to keep it slightly moist but not saturated during the germination period and after sprouting begins.

• 5

  Snip away the weaker seedling in each cell after each plant develops its second set of leaves, also called true leaves.

Transplanting Sage

• 6

  Find a location that offers full sunlight, good air circulation and adequate drainage. While sage grows in nearly any soil type, it does not tolerate soggy roots. Wait until all chance of frost is over before transplanting your new sage seedlings.

• 7

  Incorporate equal amounts of coarse sand and compost into the chosen planting location to create a nutrient-rich base with adequate drainage. The University of Missouri Extension recommends adding at least 4 inches of compost, especially to harder soil types. Work amendments into the soil at a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches, using a shovel and rake.

• 8

  Space plants at least 2 feet apart to allow for proper root development and to spread during the growth cycle. Sage plants started from seed can take up to three years to reach full maturity.

• 9

  Dig a hole as deep as the cell of the seed tray for each seedling to be transplanted.

• 10

  Use a butter knife to loosen and gently lift seedlings from the seed tray. Immediately move each seedling to its prepared hole.

• 11

  Pack soil around the seedling up to the base of the stem, patting the soil down to remove any air pockets.

• 12

  Water the planting site gently to settle the transplants into their new home, then apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch around each plant to prevent weed development.

Caring for Broadleaf Sage

• 13

  Keep the soil moist but not saturated while the transplants become established. During the growing season, give sage at least 1 inch of water per week unless there has been frequent rainfall. If your location experiences drought, increase the watering schedule to two times per week.

• 14

  Harvest leaves for use in the second and third years after planting. Fully mature leaves have a velvety texture and range in size from 2 to 4 inches in length. Gently pinch the leaves from the stem, or use garden scissors to snip them from the plant.

• 15

  Check for signs of insect infestation, such as chewed or wilting leaves, and apply an organic or food-grade pesticide. Follow the manufacturer's specifications regarding dosage and application methods.

• 16

  Prepare sage plants for winter by cutting foliage down to the ground, and then covering each plant with a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch.