How to propagate sage

Seed propagation

Sage is usually planted in spring and early fall.

In order to increase the germination rate and early germination before sowing, you can first soak the seeds in 50℃ warm water. When the temperature drops to 30℃, rinse them with clean water several times, and then place them at a constant temperature of 25-30℃ for germination or soak them in clean water for 24 hours before sowing. Direct seeding or seedling transplanting are both possible.

Since sage seeds are small, they should be sown shallowly. After sowing, cover with a thin layer of soil and water frequently to keep the soil moist.

Cutting propagation

In May and June, select the top branches that are not too tender, 5 to 8 cm long, cut them off below the nodes, remove 2 to 3 leaves at the base, and insert them into the seedbed at a depth of 2.5 to 3 cm with a row spacing of 5 cm × 5 cm.

Water after planting and cover with plastic film to keep moisture. After new roots sprout in 20 to 30 days, you can plant them at an appropriate density.

Field management

After planting, the soil should be loosened and weeds should be removed in time.

Appropriate irrigation should be carried out during drought and drainage must be carried out in time after rain. During the growing season, topdressing should be applied 2 to 3 times depending on the situation, with about 5 kg of urea per mu each time.

In the north of the Yangtze River, the soil needs to be piled up in winter for overwintering. Generally, the soil is piled up to 20 cm high after the above-ground parts are harvested and watered before the winter freeze. After the last frost in the following spring, the soil is dug up and watered to allow the sprouts to grow. It can safely overwinter in southern China without covering.