Caring for Salvias: Golden Rules by Leila Jackson
Salvias are popular garden plants that come in a wide range of colors, shapes and sizes. They are easy to grow and care for, making them a favorite among many gardeners. However, if you want to keep your salvias looking their best, there are some golden rules you should follow. In this article, we will discuss the top tips for caring for salvias as shared by gardening expert, Leila Jackson.
Choosing the Right Location
The first step to caring for salvias is choosing the right location for planting them. Salvias thrive in areas with full sun exposure, so make sure to choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight each day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so avoid areas where water tends to collect or become stagnant. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, you can improve drainage by adding compost or sand.
When it comes to spacing salvias, it's important to give them enough room to grow. Depending on the variety, salvias can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide. Plant them at least 18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
Proper Watering Techniques
Salvias are drought-tolerant plants, meaning they can go without water for extended periods of time. However, they still need regular watering to maintain their health and appearance. When watering salvias, it's important to avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases.
Leila Jackson recommends watering salvias deeply but infrequently. Instead of watering them every day, give them a good soaking once a week. This encourages deep root growth and helps the plant withstand dry spells better.
Deadheading and Pruning
Deadheading and pruning are essential for keeping salvias blooming and healthy. Deadheading involves removing spent flowers before they have a chance to set seed. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms, extending the flowering period.
Pruning, on the other hand, involves cutting back the plant's stems and foliage to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. Leila Jackson recommends pruning salvias in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the previous year's growth by about one-third to encourage new shoots to develop from the base of the plant.
Fertilizing Salvias
Salvias don't require a lot of fertilizer, but a little bit can go a long way in promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Leila Jackson suggests fertilizing salvias once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen, as this can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers. Instead, look for a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content, which promotes flowering and root development.
Protecting Salvias from Pests and Diseases
Salvias are generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally fall victim to common garden problems such as aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
To protect your salvias from pests, Leila Jackson suggests spraying them with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. This kills off any existing pests and prevents new ones from taking hold.
If your salvias are affected by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, remove the affected foliage and spray the plant with a fungicide. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully and always wear protective gear when handling chemicals.
By following these golden rules for caring for salvias, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants all season long. Remember to choose the right location for planting, water deeply but infrequently, deadhead and prune regularly, fertilize sparingly, and protect against pests and diseases. With a little bit of attention and care, your salvias will thrive and bring color and joy to your garden for years to come.
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