Baby sage 'Wendy's Surprise' Salvia microphylla 'Wendy's Surprise'

Water

Baby sage prefers to be watered regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. During active growth in spring and summer, watering once a week with approximately 1-2 gallons, depending on the size of the plant and weather conditions, is generally sufficient. In hotter, drier periods, you may need to water twice a week. During the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week, using roughly the same amount of water, as the plant's growth slows down and it requires less moisture.

Light

Baby sage thrives best in full sun conditions where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot in the garden that gets unfiltered sun for most of the day is ideal. However, it can tolerate a little shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is most intense.

Temperature

Baby sage can survive in a wide range of temperatures, but prefers a comfortable range between 60°F to 85°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20°F; however, prolonged exposure to cold below this can cause damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature conditions are warm with good air circulation.

Pruning

Pruning baby sage promotes bushier growth and more flowers. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, removing any dead or damaged stems and cutting back by about one-third to encourage new growth. Additionally, deadhead spent blooms throughout the flowering season to encourage continuous blooming.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Baby Sage thrives in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; a soil mix of equal parts loam, peat, and perlite or sand works well. The ideal pH for Baby Sage is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Baby Sage should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate its growth. Check annually to see if it's root-bound.

Humidity & Misting

Baby Sage prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity typical of most home environments without any issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in a bright spot; water when the topsoil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade; well-draining soil; water moderately.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Salvia microphylla 'Wendy's Surprise', commonly known as Baby Sage, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and exposed to warm temperatures, germinates to produce small seedlings. The seedlings develop into young plants with characteristic fragrant leaves and a dense, bushy form. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, during which it grows vigorously and produces lush foliage. Following the vegetative phase, Baby Sage enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring to summer, producing vibrant small, tubular flowers that attract a variety of pollinators. After pollination, the flowers may produce small seeds that can be dispersed for propagation. Throughout its life, which can span several years, Baby Sage experiences cycles of growth, blooming, and dormancy, often with a reduction in growth or dieback of aerial parts during colder months, followed by regrowth in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Salvia microphylla 'Wendy's Surprise', commonly known as baby sage, is typically propagated through semi-ripe stem cuttings. The best time for taking cuttings is late spring through summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy stem of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut just below a leaf node using sharp, sterilized pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cutting moist but not waterlogged and place it in bright, indirect light. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to its permanent location outdoors.