Salvias are beautiful, versatile plants that add color and texture to any garden. Whether you’ve chosen classic red salvias, fragrant sages, or exotic Mexican bush sage, these plants thrive when given the proper care. After purchasing salvias online, many gardeners are left wondering about the buy salvias online best way to ensure their new plants thrive once they arrive at their doorstep. Fortunately, caring for your salvias is relatively simple as long as you follow a few essential steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of caring for your salvias after buying them online, from unpacking to planting and maintenance.
The first step in caring for your salvias after they arrive is to unpack them carefully. Whether they are shipped as bare-root plants, potted specimens, or in smaller containers, it’s important to inspect them as soon as they arrive. If you ordered bare-root salvias, gently remove them from their packaging and check for any signs of damage or dryness. Bare-root plants should be planted as soon as possible, so soak the roots in water for 1-2 hours before planting them in the ground. For potted plants, check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is securely in its pot. If it’s dry, water it thoroughly, but avoid soaking the plant immediately after arrival if the soil is already wet, as this can lead to root rot.
Once your salvias are unpacked and inspected, it’s time to get them ready for planting. Choose a spot in your garden that provides the right growing conditions for salvias. Most varieties thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Salvias also prefer well-draining soil, so if your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding compost or organic matter to improve drainage. When planting, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball or container, gently loosen the roots, and place the plant in the hole. Ensure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil to prevent water from pooling around the base of the plant. After planting, water the plant thoroughly, but make sure the soil doesn’t stay too soggy.
Watering is a key aspect of salvia care. While salvias are fairly drought-tolerant once established, they still require consistent watering during their first few weeks after planting. Water the plants deeply, especially during the hot summer months, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to strike a balance. To ensure proper drainage, avoid planting salvias in low-lying areas where water may collect. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. However, be careful not to mound the mulch directly against the plant’s stem, as this can encourage rot.
Fertilizing your salvias can also support their growth, but it’s important not to overdo it. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for flowering plants, or apply a liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It’s usually best to fertilize your salvias in the spring, just before the growing season begins, and then periodically throughout the growing season. If your salvias are planted in nutrient-rich soil or raised beds, they may not require much additional fertilization. Monitor your plants for signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves, which could indicate a nutrient deficiency or over-fertilization.
As the season progresses, deadheading and pruning will help keep your salvias looking their best. Deadheading involves removing spent flowers, which encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production. For most salvia varieties, simply snip off the faded flower spikes at the base of the stem. In addition to deadheading, some salvias, like Salvia nemorosa, benefit from a light pruning after their first round of blooms to encourage a second flush of flowers. Prune your plants to remove any leggy growth or damaged stems, and shape them to maintain a tidy appearance. If you’re growing perennial salvias, cutting them back in the fall will help them survive the winter and prepare for the next growing season.
In conclusion, caring for your salvias after purchasing them online is straightforward if you follow a few simple steps. Start by carefully unpacking your plants and inspecting them for any damage. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and ensure your salvias are planted at the correct depth. Water regularly while the plants are establishing themselves, but avoid overwatering. Fertilize sparingly and prune dead flowers and damaged stems throughout the growing season. With the right care, your salvias will thrive in your garden, providing vibrant color and attracting pollinators for years to come. Happy gardening!
