Salvia nemorosa (Balkan Clary, Woodland Sage)

<h3>Salvia nemorosa (Balkan Clary, Woodland Sage)</h3> Seed Treatment: • 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 • Optional: Soak seeds in warm water for 6–8 hours before stratification to soften the seed coat 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 14–21 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