BROADLEAF SAGE

Sage grows in the wild in the Mediterranean regions and Asia Minor. Its Latin name comes from the word “salvere,” which means to save or heal; this herb traditionally symbolizes good health and long life. Roman cultures, considering sage a sacred plant, followed a special ceremony for its harvest. Many cultures used sage for meat preservation, a practice confirmed by research that discovered sage’s high antioxidant content. In 17th century China, sage was so valued in making infusions that traders would accept one bale of sage in trade for three bales of their tea leaves. Of all the culinary herbs, sage is perhaps the one with the widest variety of medicinal uses.

Sowing: Start sage indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring. Sow Broadleaf Sage seeds just below the surface of the soil, and keep the soil at a temperature of 65-70 degrees F. Keep the soil lightly moist with a spray bottle or careful watering; germination should take place within 2-3 weeks, and the germination rate will be naturally low. Transplant after the last spring frost in light, well drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Space the plants 12-15″ apart. Direct sowing is not recommended, since the seeds take much longer to germinate in the cooler soil of spring; this significantly delays their growth. As a companion plant, sage repels the harmful cabbage butterfly and also protects carrots from insect pests. Avoid planting sage near cucumbers. Sage also grows well indoors or as a container plant.

Growing: Though young seedlings need water regularly, mature sage develops the strongest flavor when left alone with minimal watering and no fertilization. Do not overwater, since this may cause root rot. Established plants should be pruned both in the spring and after blooming to encourage new growth and create a bushy, compact plant. After about four years, sage begins to lose its potency and may need to be replanted from cuttings. A layer of mulch will be helpful to protect the plants over winter.

Harvesting: When started from seed, sage should not be harvested until the second year of its growth to allow the plant to become established. Harvest fresh leaves as needed; the best time for harvesting is in the morning, after the dew has dried. Fresh leaves achieve their peak flavor right before the plant flowers, but after this point the flavor declines. The leaves have the best flavor when fresh, but they can also be frozen and keep very well when dried. Since sage tends to lose its flavor when heated, add it to hot food immediately before serving.

Seed Saving: Harvest the seed heads individually as soon as they begin to dry and develop mature seed. Spread them out to dry completely, and thresh them to remove the seed. Store Broadleaf Sage seeds in a cool, dry place.

Common Names: Garden Sage, Common Sage, Culinary Sage, Golden Sage, Kitchen Sage, Dalmatian Sage

Latin Name: Salvia officinalis

Species Origin: Mediterranean, Northern Africa

Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Warm Season

Life Cycle: Perennial

USDA Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Seeds per Ounce: 3,700

Planting Method: From Transplant

Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun

Height: 24 Inches

Color: Green, Blue

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer

Uses: Attracts Honeybees, Attracts Butterflies, Aromatic, Deer Resistant