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Crop Guide

How to grow sage

Herb · Very drought-tolerant · Perennial · Frost-tolerant

Primary source · UMN Extension
Sage
Moisture range
15–35%
Days to maturity
60–90
Light
Full sun
Growing Degree Units
700 · base 50°F
When to plant sage where you garden
Indoor-start, transplant and harvest dates, counted from your own frost dates.
See planting calendar →
or the link above opens zone 6b to browse.

Growing notes

Sage is a member of the mint family with aromatic leaves and some tolerance of excessive heat and dry soil. Avoid soils that have a high nutrient content as these rich soils may hurt the herb's quality by promoting rapid, lush growth that will contain only small amounts of the essential oils.

Harvest signs

Many herbs will have the best flavor if harvested just before flowering

Planting referencepH, light
pH range
6–7.5
Light
Full sun (6+ hr direct)
Pests & diseasesroot rots
Common diseases · 1
Root rots: Root rots are the most common problem of herbs grown indoors

Companions & antagonists

Plant near:BrassicaCarrot
Keep apart from:CucumberBasil
Tip: Low water — same band as thyme and rosemary.

Common questions

How much water does sage need?

Sage has middle-of-the-road water needs. Aim to keep soil moisture around 15–35%, letting the top inch dry slightly between waterings rather than staying soggy.

Can I grow sage in a raised bed or container?

Sage is a perennial that stays put for years, so give it a permanent in-ground spot or a large, deep container it can live in long-term.

Does sage come back every year?

Yes — sage is a perennial. Plant it once and it comes back each year, so pick a spot it can keep for several seasons.