How to Grow Salvia in New Hampshire

Salvia, a diverse genus of flowering plants, is famous for its ornamental appeal and culinary uses. With over 900 species, these hardy plants can thrive in various climates, making them a popular choice among gardeners. In New Hampshire, the growing conditions present unique challenges and opportunities. This article will guide you through the process of growing salvia in New Hampshire, covering everything from choosing the right species to planting, care, and maintenance.

Understanding Salvia

Before diving into the specifics of growing salvia in New Hampshire, it helps to understand what salvia is and the different types available. Salvia is part of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its aromatic leaves and vibrant flowers. Some popular species include:

• Salvia officinalis (common sage): Often used in cooking, it has gray-green leaves and purple flowers.
• Salvia nemorosa (wood sage): Known for its tall spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers.
• Salvia splendens (scarlet sage): Recognized for its striking red blooms and common in annual gardens.
• Salvia microphylla (little-leaf sage): A perennial favorite that attracts pollinators with its tubular flowers.

When selecting a salvia species to grow in New Hampshire, consider your garden’s purpose, the plant’s hardiness zone, and climate conditions.

Choosing the Right Variety

New Hampshire falls within USDA hardiness zones 3b to 5a. It’s essential to select salvia varieties that can survive winter temperatures and flourish during the growing season. Here are some recommendations:

1. Salvia nemorosa: This hardy perennial thrives well in colder climates and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°F.

2. Salvia officinalis: While best suited for warmer climates, common sage can still be cultivated successfully in NH with proper care.

3. Salvia azurea: Known as blue sage, this native plant is quite resilient and can adapt to various soil types.

4. Salvia that grows well as an annual: Options such as Salvia splendens can be planted each year for their vibrant colors.

Consider your landscape design when choosing varieties; select a mixture of perennials and annuals for continuous blooms throughout the growing season.

Preparing the Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation for thriving plants. Before planting salvia, prepare your garden bed by following these steps:

Testing Soil pH

Salvias prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can purchase a soil test kit from a local garden center or send samples to a lab for analysis. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, amendments like lime or sulfur can help adjust pH levels.

Improving Soil Drainage

Good drainage is critical for preventing root rot in salvias. If your garden bed tends to retain water, consider amending it with:

• Organic matter: Compost or well-rotted manure can improve drainage and nutrient content.
• Sand or perlite: These materials increase aeration and drainage.

Tilling the Soil

Loosen compacted soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches. This ensures that roots can grow freely and access necessary nutrients.

Planting Salvia Seeds or Transplants

Once your soil is prepared, it’s time to plant your salvias.

Direct Seeding vs. Transplanting

In New Hampshire, starting salvia from seeds can be done indoors about 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost date (typically around mid-May). Alternatively, you may opt to purchase transplants from local nurseries.

Seed Starting Indoors

1. Choose seed trays: Use seed-starting trays filled with quality seed-starting mix.
2. Sow seeds: Scatter seeds over the surface of the soil and lightly press them down without covering them completely; some need light to germinate.
3. Water gently: Mist the soil until moist but not soggy.
4. Provide warmth and light: Keep seedlings under grow lights or near a sunny window at about 70°F until they sprout.
5. Harden off seedlings: Acclimate your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions one week before transplanting.

Transplanting Outdoors

1. Choose a planting date: Wait until after the last frost date to transplant outdoors.
2. Dig holes appropriately: Space plants according to their specific variety; generally about 12–24 inches apart.
3. Add compost: Mix some compost into each hole for added nutrients.
4. Transplant seedlings: Gently remove them from trays and place them in pre-dug holes; cover roots with soil.
5. Water thoroughly: Water newly transplanted salvias deeply to settle the soil around their roots.

Ensuring Proper Care

After planting your salvia, maintaining proper care will help your plants flourish throughout the growing season.

Watering

While salvias are relatively drought-tolerant once established, young plants need regular watering during their initial growth phase:

• Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
• Reduce watering frequency as plants mature; they prefer slightly drier conditions.

Fertilization

Salvias typically do not require excessive fertilization due to their adaptability:

• Use a balanced fertilizer only if necessary—during spring growth or when blooms start developing.
• Avoid over-fertilizing; high nitrogen levels may lead to lush foliage with fewer flowers.

Pruning

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more prolific blooming:

• Remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout summer to prolong blooming periods.
• Cut back perennials in late fall once foliage has died back but before heavy snow falls.

Pest Management

While salvias are generally resistant to pests and diseases, some common issues might arise:

• Fungal diseases: Good airflow through proper spacing helps prevent powdery mildew; avoid overhead watering during humid periods.
• Insects: Monitor for pests such as aphids or spider mites; treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil when necessary.

Preparing for Winter

New Hampshire winters pose challenges for outdoor plants; however, many salvias are hardy enough to handle cold temperatures:

Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch around base plants before winter sets in:

1. Use shredded leaves or straw as insulation against freezing temperatures.
2. Mulch helps retain moisture while preventing weed growth.

Protecting Perennials

For more tender varieties that may not survive harsh winters:

1. Consider digging up these plants before frost hits, potting them up indoors until spring.
2. Alternatively, cover them with burlap or fabric protection if left outside.

Conclusion

Growing salvia in New Hampshire presents unique opportunities for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. By selecting cold-hardy varieties, preparing your garden bed correctly, providing proper care throughout the growing season—and implementing seasonal protections—you can enjoy vibrant blooms from late spring through early autumn while enhancing biodiversity by attracting pollinators to your garden space.

Whether you choose salvia for their culinary uses or stunning ornamental qualities—growing these versatile plants will surely enrich your gardening experience! Happy planting!