How to Grow Hummingbird Sage from Seed: The Ultimate Guide
What To Know
- Check the expiration date on the seed packet and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Starting hummingbird sage seeds indoors gives you a head start in the growing season, allowing you to enjoy blooms earlier in the year.
- Mulch the base of the plant with a layer of organic material to protect the roots from frost.
Hummingbird sage, also known as Salvia involucrata, is a stunning and fragrant plant that attracts hummingbirds with its vibrant red flowers and sweet nectar. This perennial plant is a must-have for any gardener looking to attract these beautiful birds to their backyard. If you’re wondering how to grow hummingbird sage from seed, then you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from seed selection to planting and care.
Understanding Hummingbird Sage
Before diving into the specifics of growing hummingbird sage from seed, it’s essential to understand the plant’s characteristics and needs. Hummingbird sage is a member of the mint family and is known for its:
- Showy, vibrant red flowers: These flowers are tubular in shape, making them perfect for hummingbirds to feed from. The blooms typically appear from late summer to early fall, attracting hummingbirds to your garden just as they are preparing for their long migration south.
- Attractive foliage: The leaves of hummingbird sage are large and velvety, adding a unique texture to your garden.
- Fragrant aroma: The plant has a sweet, spicy scent that adds another layer of appeal to your landscape.
Choosing the Right Hummingbird Sage Seeds
The first step in growing hummingbird sage from seed is choosing the right seeds. Consider the following factors:
- Source: Look for reputable seed suppliers who offer high-quality seeds. Avoid purchasing seeds from unknown sources, as they may not be viable or true to type.
- Variety: There are several varieties of hummingbird sage available, each with slightly different flower colors and growth habits. Consider the size and style of your garden when choosing a variety.
- Freshness: Always choose seeds that are fresh and have a good germination rate. Check the expiration date on the seed packet and store them in a cool, dry place.
Starting Hummingbird Sage Seeds Indoors
Starting hummingbird sage seeds indoors gives you a head start in the growing season, allowing you to enjoy blooms earlier in the year. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare seed starting trays: Fill seed starting trays with a seed starting mix and dampen it thoroughly.
2. Sow the seeds: Plant each seed about 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
3. Cover and water: Gently cover the seeds with a thin layer of seed starting mix and water them lightly.
4. Provide light and warmth: Place the trays in a warm, sunny location. You may need to use a grow light to supplement natural light, especially during winter months.
5. Maintain moisture: Keep the seed starting mix consistently moist, but not soggy.
6. Thin seedlings: Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them out, leaving the strongest seedling in each cell.
Transplanting Hummingbird Sage Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed a strong root system and are a few inches tall, it’s time to transplant them outdoors. Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose a sunny location: Hummingbird sage thrives in full sun, so choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
2. Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Dig planting holes: Dig holes that are slightly larger than the seedling’s root ball.
4. Gently remove seedlings: Carefully remove the seedlings from their trays, being careful not to damage the roots.
5. Plant and water: Place the seedlings in the planting holes, ensuring the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill the holes with soil and water thoroughly.
Caring for Your Hummingbird Sage Plants
Once your hummingbird sage plants are established, they require minimal care. Here are some essential tips for success:
- Watering: Water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist.
- Fertilizing: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers encourages the plant to produce more blooms.
- Winter care: In colder climates, hummingbird sage may die back to the ground in winter. Mulch the base of the plant with a layer of organic material to protect the roots from frost.
Enjoying the Beauty of Hummingbird Sage
As your hummingbird sage plants mature, they’ll begin to produce their stunning red flowers, attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Here are some tips for maximizing the enjoyment of your hummingbird sage:
- Create a hummingbird haven: Plant hummingbird sage alongside other nectar-rich flowers, such as bee balm, coneflowers, and zinnias, to create a vibrant and inviting habitat for hummingbirds.
- Provide a water source: Hummingbirds need a source of water for drinking and bathing. Set up a birdbath or a shallow dish filled with fresh water.
- Observe the hummingbirds: Take time to observe the hummingbirds as they flit from flower to flower, enjoying the nectar. You may even be able to identify different species based on their size, color, and flight patterns.
Time to Reap the Rewards
Growing hummingbird sage from seed is a rewarding experience. Not only will you enjoy the beauty of this vibrant plant, but you’ll also be providing a valuable food source for hummingbirds. By following these simple steps, you can easily cultivate a thriving hummingbird sage patch that will attract these fascinating creatures to your garden for years to come.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How long does it take for hummingbird sage to bloom?
A: Hummingbird sage typically blooms in its second year after planting. However, if you start the seeds indoors, you may see blooms in the first year.
Q: Can I grow hummingbird sage from cuttings?
A: Yes, hummingbird sage can be propagated from cuttings. Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer and root them in a moist rooting medium.
Q: Is hummingbird sage deer resistant?
A: Hummingbird sage is generally deer resistant, but deer may nibble on the leaves if other food sources are scarce.
Q: What are some other plants that attract hummingbirds?
A: Other plants that attract hummingbirds include bee balm, coneflowers, zinnias, trumpet vine, and honeysuckle.