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. Use a container (15 L) with well-drained media; like rosemary, sage needs excellent drainage and dies in waterlogged conditions. EC 1.2-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5 (tolerates slightly alkaline). Temperature: 10–28°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to about zone 4). Full sun (DLI 16-24 mol/m2/day). Growth is moderate. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches when pruned and grows bushier over time, and the flavour is most concentrated just before flowering. To dry, dry the leaves quickly at 35–40°C to preserve the volatile oils, since slow air-drying can turn musty; dried sage holds flavour well for over a year. Propagate by semi-hardwood stem cuttings in summer, layering, or seed. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of failure. Sage pairs poorly with basil in one container (sage wants dry, lean conditions, basil wants moist and rich) and is best grouped with rosemary, thyme and oregano.