Sage
Salvia officinalis
Also known asGarden sage · Common sage · Salvia · Sauge
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–9 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- very hardy (survives deep cold)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.5 |
Aquaponics suitability
Not recommended
Fish waste alone doesn't supply enough of what this crop demands. Grows in hybrid systems with supplemental dosing, but expect active management.
Care notes
A long-lived perennial herb for container or hydroponic growing. Container (15 L) with well-drained media (like rosemary, sage needs excellent drainage and dies in waterlogged conditions). EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5 (tolerates slightly alkaline). Temperature: 10–28°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to zone 4). Full sun (DLI 16-25 mol/m2/day). Growth is moderate. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches when pruned, becoming bushier over time. The flavor is most concentrated in fresh leaves just before flowering. For drying: dry leaves quickly at 35–40°C to preserve the volatile oils (slow air-drying can produce musty off-flavors). Dried sage retains flavor well for 12+ months. Propagation by stem cuttings (semi-hardwood in summer), layering, or seed. Overwatering and poor drainage are the primary causes of failure. Sage in the same container as basil is a mismatch: sage wants dry, lean conditions while basil wants moist, rich conditions. Group sage with rosemary, thyme, and oregano for compatible Mediterranean herb growing.