Meadow sage (Salvia pratensis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Meadow sage hates dry conditions, so it should be watered frequently, especially in times of drought. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant around three times a week during the growing season, and twice a week at other times, but check the soil to make sure it doesn't become waterlogged. Water the surrounding soil, not the plant itself since this can damage the foliage.

Fertilization

Meadow sage has limited fertilization needs and so doesn't require frequent applications. Having said that, it does benefit from the application of organic fertilizer during the spring and summer growth period. At this time, it is also a good idea to add compost or guano to the surrounding soil.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Meadow sage

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

3 to 7

Planting Time

Spring, Summer

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Questions About Meadow sage

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Meadow sage?

When watering the Meadow sage, you should aim to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Filtered water is better for this plant, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to its health. The reason that the water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer is that the Meadow sage comes from a warm environment, and cold water can be somewhat of a shock to its system. Also, you should avoid overhead watering for this plant, as it can cause foliage complications. Instead, simply apply your filtered room temperature water to the soil until the soil is entirely soaked. Soaking the soil can be very beneficial for this plant as it moistens the roots and helps them continue to spread through the soil and collect the nutrients they need.

What should I do if I water my Meadow sage too much or too little?

Both overwatering and underwatering will be detrimental to the health of your Meadow sage, but overwatering is a far more common issue. When this species receives too much water, its stems and leaves may begin to wilt and turn from green to yellow. Overwatering over a prolonged period may also lead to diseases such as root rot, mold, and mildew, all of which can kill your plant. Underwatering is far less common for the Meadow sage, as this plant has decent drought tolerance. However, underwatering remains a possibility, and when it occurs, you can expect to find that the leaves of your Meadow sage have become brittle and brown.

It is crucial that you notice the signs of overwatering as soon as possible when caring for your Meadow sage. Some of the diseases that arise from overwatering, such as root rot, may not be correctable if you wait too long. If you see early signs of overwatering, you should reduce your watering schedule immediately. You may also want to assess the quality of soil in which your Meadow sage grows. If you find that the soil drains very poorly, you should replace it immediately with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if you find signs that your Meadow sage is receiving too little water, all you need to do is water more regularly until those signs have subsided.

How often should I water my Meadow sage?

If your plant is in a pot. The most precise way to decide whether your Meadow sage needs water is to plunge your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first two to three inches of soil have become dry, it is time to add some water.

If you grow your Meadow sage outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method to test the soil. Again, when you find that the first few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to add water. During the spring and early fall, this method will often lead you to water this plant about once every week. When extremely hot weather arrives, you may need to increase your watering frequency to about twice or more per week. With that said, mature, well-established the Meadow sage can show an admirable ability to withstand drought.

How much water does my Meadow sage need?

When it comes time to water your Meadow sage, you should not be shy about how much water you give. With the first two to three inches of soil dry, this plant will appreciate a long and thorough watering. Supply enough water to soak the soil entirely. The amount of water you add should be enough to cause excess water to flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If you don’t see excess water draining from the pot, you have likely underwatered your plant. But do not let the water accumulate inside the soil, which will be very dangerous to the plant as well. Alternatively, a lack of water draining through the pot could indicate poorly draining soils, which is detrimental to the health of this plant and should be avoided. If the plant is outside, 1 inch of rain per week will be sufficient.

How should I water my Meadow sage at different growth stages?

The water needs of the Meadow sage can change depending on growth stages as well. For example, when your Meadow sage is in the first few years of its life, or if you have just transplanted it to a new growing location, you will need to give more water than usual. During both of those stages, your Meadow sage will put a lot of energy towards sprouting new roots that will then support future growth. For those roots to perform their best, they need a bit more moisture than they would at a more mature phase. After a few seasons, your Meadow sage will need much less water. Another growth stage in which this plant may need more water is during the bloom period. Flower development can make use of a significant amount of moisture, which is why you might need to give your Meadow sage more water at this time.

How should I water my Meadow sage through the seasons?

The Meadow sage will have its highest water needs during the hottest months of the year. During the height of summer, you may need to give this plant water more than once per week, depending on how fast the soil dries out. The opposite is true during the winter. In winter, your plant will enter a dormant phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. In fact, you may not need to water this plant at all during the winter months. However, if you do water during winter, you should not do so more than about once per month. Watering too much at this time will make it more likely that your Meadow sage will contract a disease.

What's the difference between watering my Meadow sage indoors and outdoors?

It is most common to grow the Meadow sage indoors for any gardener that does not live in temperate and tropical regions. Those gardeners should consider the fact that soil in a container can dry out a bit faster than ground soil. Also, the presence of drying elements such as air conditioning units can cause your Meadow sage to need water on a more frequent basis as well. if you planted it outside. When that is the case, it’s likely you won’t need to water your Meadow sage very much at all. If you receive rainfall on a regular basis, that may be enough to keep your plant alive. Alternatively, those who grow this plant inside will need to water it more often, as allowing rainwater to soak the soil will not be an option.

Do I need to prune my Meadow sage?

Far from damaging the plant, regular pruning will actually encourage Meadow sage to produce more blooms. There are two primary forms of pruning for Meadow sage. The first is deadheading, which is the gardening term for removing spent flower heads once they start to wither. This concentrates the nutrients for the other flowers and allows the plant to flower better. The final process for pruning Meadow sage is the removal of yellow and diseased leaves, which increases plant ventilation and light penetration and facilitates plant growth. When nature runs its course, Meadow sage will bloom once, produce seed heads, and attempt to reproduce for the rest of the year. But, by consistently removing flower heads before they go to seed, you encourage the plant to continue producing more blooms for a longer flowering time. When the plant starts to wilt during the full, you should cut off the wilted part above the soil as well.

When is the best time to prune my Meadow sage?

There are two primary forms of pruning for Meadow sage. The first is deadheading, which is the gardening term for removing spent flower heads once they start to wither. This concentrates the nutrients for the other flowers and allows the plant to flower better. The final process for pruning Meadow sage is the removal of yellow and diseased leaves, which increases plant ventilation and light penetration and facilitates plant growth. Since Meadow sage requires two types of pruning, you’ll be trimming your plants throughout the growing season. Pinching is most effective in the early spring before the plant develops any flower buds. Removal of yellowing or diseased leaves can be done at any time during the growing season. When nature runs its course, Meadow sage will bloom once, produce seed heads, and attempt to reproduce for the rest of the year. But, by consistently removing flower heads before they go to seed, you encourage the plant to continue producing more blooms for a longer flowering time. Finally, deadheading takes place as soon as the plants are producing full flower heads. Expect to take off spent blossoms from mid-summer through the first frosts of fall. When the plant starts to wilt during the full, you should cut off the wilted part above the soil as well.

What tools should I prepare for pruning my Meadow sage?

Meadow sage doesn’t take much special equipment for pruning. A basic pair of scissors or garden shears should do the trick. It’s a good idea to ensure they are clean before use—you can soak them for thirty minutes in a solution of one part bleach diluted in nine parts water. This reduces the risk of spreading disease lingering on contaminated equipment into your flower garden. Some gardeners avoid using tools altogether and merely pinch off the blossoms with their fingertips. That can be a faster technique, but you run a larger risk of bruising the plant stems or accidentally pulling them out of the ground completely.

Are there any instructions for pruning my Meadow sage?

Here’s an overview of pruning instructions for Meadow sage based on which of the two types you’re completing. By completing these two types of pruning over the lifespan of your Meadow sage, you’ll encourage them to produce bigger, better flowers for far longer than the plants would otherwise. It only takes a few minutes to complete each step of the pruning process, and you’ll reap the rewards of your efforts for weeks to come. Deadheading Deadheading is a fast, easy way to refresh your garden by removing old flowers and providing space for new ones to take their place. You can use your fingers to pop off old flower heads as soon as they look tired, although you’re less likely to damage the plant if you use shears instead. When deadheading, make sure you cut well below the flower so that you aren’t left with a long, flowerless stem sticking out in your garden bed. Instead, cut the stem to just above the point where the side stem joins the main plant. Remove yellow and diseased leaves, this increases the ventilation and light penetration of the plant and facilitates its growth. When pruning, the leaves need to be trimmed off together with the petiole. It is best to use sterilised scissors to cut them off. Note: It’s a good idea to ensure scissors or garden shears are clean before use—you can soak them for thirty minutes in a solution of one part bleach diluted in nine parts water. This reduces the risk of spreading disease lingering on contaminated equipment into your flower garden.

What type of sunlight does Meadow sage need?

Meadow sage needs full sun every day, and these plants rely on a minimum of six hours of sunlight to keep their leaves, roots, and blooms in a healthy state. Even though most perennials need six hours of sunlight a day, plants like the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis could live off less sun for a minimum of three hours daily. Even though these perennial flowering plants can live with only three hours of direct sunlight, they won't be able to thrive like they would in sunnier conditions.

Can sunlight damage Meadow sage? How to protect Meadow sage from the sun and heat damage?

The few Perennial Flowering Plants that don't like excessive heat in warm climates might react poorly to too much sun if they have heat damage. These plants may wilt or dry out from too much sun and may also develop growth issues if they're regularly in the sun during the most intense heat of the day. Some plants don't need protection from the light afternoon sun, but those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure should be provided some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners could give these plants plenty of shade by planting them in spots that don't receive direct heat during the afternoon, like under trees or behind bushes.

Should I protect Meadow sage from sun exposure?

While many perennial plants need plenty of sun to bloom to their fullest extent, some of them benefit from less sun in warmer climates. For example, people who live in hotter climates might want to provide shade for their flowering perennials in the hot afternoon sun, and this is even more true for months in the summer.

Even though some perennial flowering plants will benefit from partially shaded in the hottest climates, plants like the Giant Coreopsis aren't intimidated by too much sun. They might sit outside in the full sun in hot weather and still thrive.

What will happen if Meadow sage gets inadequate sunlight?

If you're growing Meadow sage and you aren't getting enough sunlight, you'll notice signs of inadequate requirements in your plants. Most plants won't produce as many blooms as they would if they had full sun exposure. Some plants will develop dry spots on their leaves, but most of these plants will still bloom in the inadequate sun. Even though they bloom, the flowers will be smaller and less full.

Does Meadow sage need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Meadow sage is great flowers in gardens and will have optimum blooming if it gets six hours of sunlight a day minimum. Sometimes, flowers stay fresh longer if they're partially shaded during the really hot parts of the day. When Meadow sage is young, gardeners want to ensure their younger plants are getting plenty of sunlight but don't have to endure intense heat during the afternoon sunlight. If you have a fully mature plant, provide it with plenty of sun so it may keep up its growth properly.

How much light does Meadow sage need for photosynthesis?

Meadow sage will need a minimum of six hours of light to best support their photosynthesis cycles. These flowering plants need the sun to help their foliage and blooms grow. However, certain perennial flowering plants like the Giant Coreopsis might need anywhere from eight to twelve hours of full sun a day to maintain their large flowers and healthy foliage.

How much light should Meadow sage get per day to grow healthily?

If you want your Meadow sage to grow healthy and bloom as much as possible during its blooming season, you should try to give your plant six hours of direct sunlight. Some perennial plants might even do more sunlight and could sit in the sun for up to twelve hours, depending on the heat in the area and the general environment. Plants like the Red Hot Poker and Giant Coreopsis thrive in much hotter climates and might sit in all types of strong sunlight.

Some home gardeners have to use grow lights because their spaces don't allow for tons of outdoor sunlight. Most perennials could grow happily in grow lights, but they will need anywhere from eight to fourteen hours of artificial light to stay strong since these lights don't have as much power as the sun.

What is the optimal temperature for Meadow sage?

Meadow sage prefers cooler weather, and has a specific temperature range you can keep it within to maximize growth. For Meadow sage to be as healthy as it possible can, you could keep them between the temperatures 65~75℉(18~25℃). Meadow sage can handle higher and lower heat levels, but whenever possible, try to keep the area you grow them in within several degrees of 65~75℉(18~25℃).

If you can’t keep Meadow sage precisely within that range, it doesn’t mean they will stop growing. Meadow sage can handle a higher and lower range before they begin to suffer damage or reduced growth. On the higher end, that temperature would that would fall between 75~85℉(25~30℃). On the lower end, Meadow sage can handle temperatures as low as 5℉(-15℃). The higher temperature range is the most important to observe, as Meadow sage prefers cooler environments. Letting temperatures get above the upper range may cause growth to slow, and having Meadow sage above 85℉(30℃) could result in the plant dying.

Does Meadow sage require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Too much heat early in the growing stages of Meadow sage may give it an unhealthy appearance, so it's important to keep your growing space between 65~75℉(18~25℃). You’ll want to stay in the colder part of this range as Meadow sage, but make sure not to go below -5℉(-20℃). Extremely cold temperatures can hinder growth at any stage for Meadow sage, though they aren’t nearly as damaging as extremely hot temperatures. If temperatures are kept high during the budding stage, Meadow sage may not flower at all.

Three tips for keeping Meadow sage temperature under control

Tip #1: Grow in the Coldest Room of Your Home

If you plan to grow Meadow sage indoors, make sure to choose the coldest room of your home. This will usually be on the side of your house that doesn’t experience the harsh heat that the sun can produce in the middle of the day. At the same time, you’ll need to ensure the room does get a healthy amount of sunlight. While you’ll want to spare your plants from the brightest and hottest part of the day, zero sunlight can drastically reduce Meadow sage ability to grow.

Tip #2: If Meadow sage Doesn’t Flower Properly, It May Be Too Hot

The growing season for Meadow sage, spring and early summer, can occasionally come with high temperatures. These fluctuations can negatively affect the growing stage of Meadow sage, causing flowering buds to change into non-flowering buds. These buds will open partially, or in some cases not at all, causing Meadow sage to lose some of its aesthetic quality. It's important to stay in the range of 65~75℉(18~25℃), for that reason, so your Meadow sage can flower to its full potential.

Tip #3: Avoid Frost

While Meadow sage can tolerate lower temperatures, as low as -5℉(-20℃), it will not do well if it encounters significant frost. If left out in the colder temperatures of late fall or winter, Meadow sage will begin to show the signs of frost damage. To recognize the signs of frost damage, you’ll look for several key aesthetic changes. First, parts of Meadow sage will begin to wilt. Then, those sections will start to become discolored, eventually turning brown or black as they die. Any parts of Meadow sage that turn these colors cannot be saved, and will have to be pruned if you intend to keep the plant alive.

Does Meadow sage need different temperatures for different seasons?

It's important to keep the temperature of your growing area steady regardless of season. If you live in an area with harsh winters or very hot summers, it may be best to put your plants inside. That way, you can keep them in a cool room where Meadow sage would be able to grow in the best possible conditions.

If you do leave your plants outside, make sure to observe the temperature closely. If the summer’s get especially hot in your climate-zone, make sure that your plants aren’t exposed to temperatures above 85℉(30℃). This will dehydrate and damage Meadow sage quickly, and before long, they will begin to die.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for Meadow sage?

If you intend to place Meadow sage outside, you’ll want to make sure that it has shade from the heat of the midday sun. While Meadow sage does need plentiful sunlight to grow to its full potential, direct sunlight can cause a rise in temperature and damage certain elements of the plant. Choose an area that has shade providing structures or tall trees that can shield Meadow sage from the hottest parts of the day.

If your climate isn’t appropriate for Meadow sage or you don’t have the proper space in your garden, you can also plant them inside. Controlling the temperature is much easier indoors, and having proper fans, ventilation, or an A/C unit will allow you to stay within the optimum range of 65~75℉(18~25℃).

Why do I need to fertilize my Meadow sage?

Fertilization is important to the Meadow sage for several general reasons. Mainly, fertilization helps Meadow sage and other plants by providing key nutrients that help the plant grow both above and below ground. However, the overall fertilization needs for a Meadow sage are relatively low.

At times, a Meadow sage may survive well without fertilization. However, annual fertilization is can be very beneficial to the Meadow sage, as it will help keep the plant alive and may also encourage your Meadow sage to create better flowers that last for longer. As such, those interested in helping their Meadow sage look its best should keep up with annual fertilization.

When is the best time to fertilize my Meadow sage?

The ideal time to fertilize a Meadow sage is in the late winter to early spring. During that time, your Meadow sage will be exiting its dormant phase and entering a phase of active growth. Fertilization at this time allows the plant to get off to a great start for the season by encouraging healthy growth.

While it is generally most advantageous to fertilize a Meadow sage during the early spring, it is also permissible to fertilize a Meadow sage during the fall too. However, summer and winter remain the seasons in which it is not a good idea to feed a Meadow sage.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Meadow sage?

You should not fertilize your Meadow sage during any time of the year except during the late winter and early spring. The low fertilization needs of this plant allow a single annual feeding to suffice. Continuing to fertilize throughout spring, summer, and fall can easily lead to overfertilization and all of the complications that can come with it. The only exception is if you did not fertilize in spring, which means that it is permissible to feed this plant in fall.

Along with refraining from fertilizing for most of the growing season, there is also no reason to fertilize this plant during the winter. In winter, the Meadow sage will be in a dormant growth phase, meaning that it does not put forth new growth. With that being the case, fertilization during most of the winter is not advisable.

What type of fertilizer does my Meadow sage need?

Nearly any kind of general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced amount of the three main plant nutrients will work well for a Meadow sage. However, there are a few specific nutrient blends that can be even more beneficial. For instance, many gardeners follow the belief that higher volumes of phosphorus make for stronger roots and better flowers. Since Meadow sage is a flowering plant, applying a phosphorus-rich fertilizer may be the best approach.

You can use a fertilizer that comes in a granular form or a liquid form as long as there are plenty of nutrients present. Outside of manufactured fertilizers, you can also use more organic means to improve the soil for your Meadow sage. Mainly, compost, manure, and similar materials can go a long way towards creating a healthy growing medium for your Meadow sage.

How do I fertilize my Meadow sage?

The most common way to fertilize a Meadow sage is to apply a granular or pellet fertilizer to the soil around your plant. Remember that the ideal time to fertilize is as the plant is exiting its winter dormant growth phase and entering a phase of active growth. In early spring, wait until the plant begins to send shoots through the soil, and then apply your fertilizer.

Some people may choose to use a liquid fertilizer instead of a granular one. In that case, you should dilute the fertilizer with water before applying it. Regardless of whether you use granular or liquid fertilizer, it is always best to moisten the soil before, during, and after you apply fertilizer.

What happens if I fertilize my Meadow sage too much?

As you care for your Meadow sage, recall that this plant does not need a lot of fertilizer each year and will begin to suffer if it receives too much. Firstly, any overfertilized plant runs the risk of fertilizer burn, a condition in which excessive amounts of fertilizer draw nutrients and moisture out of the plant's roots, causing its decline.

Also, overfertilizing a Meadow sage is also a way of weakening your plant and making disease far more likely. There is also a potential that overfertilization could cause your Meadow sage to flower less or not at all, which is a significant detriment considering the blooms of this plant are what make it so valuable and sought after by so many gardeners.

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More About How-Tos

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Feng shui direction

South

Meadow sage brews an inviting, serene atmosphere, harmonising with the South-facing aspect of one's dwelling. The lush blue blooms foster an element of calm, a trait cherished in Feng Shui. This orientation encourages a welcoming flow of positive energy, as South is tantamount to the warming sunlight.

Water

Every week

Lighting

Full sun

Meadow sage thrives in areas exposed to abundant daily light, but can also endure locations with moderate illumination. Originating from open habitats, full daylight enhances its vigorous growth. Stages of development do not significantly affect its light necessity. Insufficient or excessive light may stunt growth or cause wilting.

Temperature

-30 35 ℃

Meadow sage grows natively in temperate regions with a preferred temperature range of 32 to 90 ℉ (0 to 32 ℃). In warmer regions, it prefers partial shade to prevent overheating in the summer, while in cooler regions, it appreciates full sun. During the summer, it may require regular watering to compensate for higher temperatures.

Transplant

12-18 inches

Ideally, transplant meadow sage during early to late spring or mid-fall to early winter for the best results. Choose a sunny to partially shaded location to maintain its vibrant colors. When transplanting, make sure to give meadow sage enough room to grow and flourish. Happy planting!

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Meadow sage based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Old grasslands over chalk and limestone

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Blue

Purple

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Meadow sage

Salvia plants are mostly called sage. To distinguish each plant, they are named after their characteristics. For example, this plant likes to grow on the edge of brush and woodland, therefore the word pratensis is added referring to its tendency to grow in meadows. So it is called meadow sage.

Symbolism

Thoughtfulness, longevity, wisdom, good health

Usages

Garden Use

Meadow sage produces showy flowers from late spring until midsummer. It is a desired plant for gardeners developing their wildflower or cottage gardens. Its ability to grow along coastlines also makes it suitable for coastal gardens. Meadow sage provides height for borders with its tall spike-like aesthetic.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Meadow sage

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The common coleus is a plant that comes in a wide range of colors and leaf forms. This plant, also known as Coleus scutellarioides, is native to Southeast Asia and is used as an herbal remedy in various cultures. Common coleus is a narcotic used by the Mazatec people of Mexico. In Cuba, this plant is considered invasive.

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Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

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Meadow sage

Salvia pratensis

Also known as: Meadow clary

Meadow sage is a sage known for its beautiful purple-blue flowers, which attract butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. This plant makes a lovely addition to a border or container and the foliage has an attractive fragrance. Meadow sage is resistant to deer and rabbits.

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Meadow sage

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About Meadow sage

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Meadow sage?

What should I do if I water my Meadow sage too much or too little?

How often should I water my Meadow sage?

How much water does my Meadow sage need?

How should I water my Meadow sage at different growth stages?

How should I water my Meadow sage through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Meadow sage indoors and outdoors?

Do I need to prune my Meadow sage?

When is the best time to prune my Meadow sage?

What tools should I prepare for pruning my Meadow sage?

Are there any instructions for pruning my Meadow sage?

What type of sunlight does Meadow sage need?

Can sunlight damage Meadow sage? How to protect Meadow sage from the sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Meadow sage from sun exposure?

What will happen if Meadow sage gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Meadow sage need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Meadow sage need for photosynthesis?

How much light should Meadow sage get per day to grow healthily?

What is the optimal temperature for Meadow sage?

Does Meadow sage require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Three tips for keeping Meadow sage temperature under control

Does Meadow sage need different temperatures for different seasons?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for Meadow sage?

Why do I need to fertilize my Meadow sage?

When is the best time to fertilize my Meadow sage?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Meadow sage?

What type of fertilizer does my Meadow sage need?

How do I fertilize my Meadow sage?

What happens if I fertilize my Meadow sage too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Meadow sage based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

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Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Old grasslands over chalk and limestone

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Blue

Purple

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Meadow sage

Symbolism

Thoughtfulness, longevity, wisdom, good health

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Meadow sage

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Related Plants

Spathiphyllum wallisii

Giant taro

Alocasia macrorrhizos

Common coleus

Coleus scutellarioides