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Sage

Salvia officinalis

Herb

Sage is a woody perennial herb whose strong camphor-like scent effectively deters cabbage moths, carrot flies, and other pests. Its purple flowers are excellent nectar sources for bees and other pollinators.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining, lean sandy or loamy soil; pH 6.0–7.0

Spacing

18–24 inches

Days to Maturity

Harvest lightly from year 1; replace plants every 4–5 years as they become woody

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 4–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Transplant

    Spring after last frost

  • Harvest

    Harvest before flowering for best culinary flavour; leave flowers for pollinators

Organic Growing Tips

  • Plant sage at the corners of brassica beds to act as aromatic sentinels that repel cabbage butterflies.

  • Prune back by one-third after flowering to prevent legginess and promote new growth.

  • Do not plant near basil or cucumbers; sage inhibits their growth through allelopathic compounds.

  • Sage pairs beautifully with thyme and rosemary in a drought-tolerant Mediterranean herb bed.

Common Pests

  • Aphids
  • Slugs
  • Powdery Mildew

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.

Sage | Garden by Willowbottom