Salvia nemorosa (Balkan Clary, Woodland Sage)
Seed Treatment:
• Soak seeds in warm water for 6–8 hours before stratification
• Cold stratification recommended: Place seeds in moist paper towel or vermiculite, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 14–21 days
If seedlings sprout in the fridge, remove them gently and plant immediately.
When to Sow:
• Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before the last frost after stratification
• Outdoors: Sow directly in fall for natural stratification or in early spring when soil is workable
Sowing Instructions:
• Surface sow or barely cover with a light dusting of soil or vermiculite — seeds need light to germinate
• Ideal germination temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy
• Germinates in 14–28 days
Light Requirements:
• Requires full sun for best growth and flowering
• Can tolerate light shade, especially in hot climates
Soil Requirements:
• Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil
• Avoid heavy, wet soils
• pH range: 6.0–7.5
Watering:
• Water lightly during germination
• Once established, water sparingly — Salvia nemorosa is drought-tolerant
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart
Growing Tips:
• Produces spikes of violet-blue to purple flowers from late spring through summer
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Deer- and rabbit-resistant
• Excellent in borders, rock gardens, xeriscapes, and pollinator gardens
• Hardy perennial in USDA Zones 4–9