Salvia coccinea (Scarlet Sage) is a vibrant and attractive plant that's sure to add a splash of color to your garden. Here's a guide to planting it from seed:
Site Selection
Sunlight: Scarlet Sage thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in very hot climates, it can benefit from some afternoon shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as the drainage is good. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or other organic matter.
Space: These plants typically grow 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, so space them accordingly.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
Fall Planting: In warmer climates (USDA zones 8-10), you can sow seeds directly outdoors in the fall.
Preparation: Clear the area of weeds and debris. Lightly loosen the top layer of soil.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds very shallowly, barely covering them with a thin layer of soil or sand, as they need light to germinate.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, until seedlings emerge.
Spring Planting: In cooler climates, sow seeds outdoors in spring after the last frost.
Preparation: Prepare the seedbed as described above.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds as described above.
Watering: Water regularly until seedlings are established.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.
Stratification: Stratification is not required for Salvia coccinea seeds.
Planting:
Use a seed starting mix. Sow seeds very shallowly in seed starting trays or pots.
Keep the soil moist and provide warmth (70-75°F) for germination. Light is important.
Transplanting: Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves and the weather has warmed (after the last frost), transplant them outdoors. Harden them off gradually before transplanting.
Maintenance Tips
Watering: Once established, Scarlet Sage is relatively drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings.
Fertilizing: They generally don't need much fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Pinching: Pinching back the tips of stems in late spring can encourage bushier growth.
Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if you don't want it to spread.
Invasiveness
Salvia coccinea is native to the southeastern United States and is not generally considered invasive. However, it can self-seed in favorable conditions. If you want to control its spread, remove seed pods before they mature.
Additional Notes
Scarification: Scarification is not usually necessary for Salvia coccinea seeds.
Pollinators: Scarlet Sage is a great plant for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to your garden.
Deer Resistance: Salvias are generally deer-resistant.
Important Considerations
Good drainage is key to success.
Provide adequate spacing to allow for air circulation.
With these guidelines, you should be able to grow beautiful Scarlet Sage in your garden!
