When to Harvest White Sage for Distillation

Wild Harvesting and Farming

• Spring is a common time to harvest wild white sage for distillation. When harvesting, take small amounts from each plant to ensure good future harvests; without maintenance and watering care, little may be left to pick from wild plants the rest of the year. Farming is different. "Regular watering keeps the plants in constant growth, and they can be harvested all year," says Ellen Woodward-Taylor, owner of Sage Winds Farm in San Diego County, California.

Plant Maturity

• The best oil comes from mature plants. It may take some effort in the wild, but try to locate mature plants with thick, silvery white leaves when harvesting for distillation. Some of the best oil producing white sage plants are 15 years old with woody, snarled trunks. Domestic harvesting can occur at any time on a healthy, mature and cared for plant.

Seasonal Harvest And Moon Phases

• In spring, locate spikes of whitish pink flowers and buds. Harvest white sage for distillation when it is blooming (or shortly before) and in cooler morning hours. Also, be mindful of the moon: "Most plants have more sap and more juice during the three days before the full moon," says Nancy Arrowsmith, herbalist author.

Harvesting Regulations

• Harvest white sage for distillation after you investigate your intended harvest area. Before heading out into the field, check current state laws regarding the harvesting of wild, native plants. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife lists guidelines for the protection of native plants in their natural setting; wild white sage plants are increasingly mistreated and over-harvested. Obtain written permission from private landowners for allotted harvest periods.