What To Do With Salvias When They Finish Flowering?

What to Do with Salvias When They Finish Flowering

Salvias, commonly known as sages, are a diverse group of flowering plants belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Known for their vibrant blooms and aromatic foliage, salvias are popular among gardeners for their ability to attract pollinators and add color to landscapes. Once salvias finish flowering, many gardeners may wonder what steps to take to ensure the plants remain healthy and continue to thrive. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on caring for salvias after they finish flowering, including deadheading, pruning, winter care, and propagation.

Understanding Salvias

Salvias encompass over 900 species, ranging from annuals to perennials and shrubs. They are prized for their colorful flowers, which can be blue, purple, pink, red, or white, and their aromatic leaves, which have culinary and medicinal uses. In many regions, salvias bloom from late spring through fall, providing a long-lasting display of color.

The Importance of Post-Flowering Care

After salvias finish flowering, proper care is essential to encourage new growth, maintain plant health, and prepare them for the next growing season. Neglecting to care for salvias after they bloom can lead to weak plants, reduced flowering in subsequent seasons, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Steps to Take After Salvias Finish Flowering

1. Deadheading

Deadheading is the practice of removing spent flowers from a plant. This process is beneficial for salvias for several reasons:

• Promotes Continuous Blooming: By removing faded flowers, you prevent the plant from diverting energy into seed production, encouraging it to produce more blooms.
• Improves Aesthetic Appeal: Deadheading helps maintain a tidy appearance in the garden by removing unsightly, wilted flowers.
• Encourages Bushier Growth: Regular deadheading can stimulate lateral growth, resulting in a fuller and bushier plant.

How to Deadhead Salvias:

• Tools Needed: Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to make clean cuts.
• Identify Spent Flowers: Look for flowers that are wilting, browning, or have already dropped their petals.
• Make the Cut: Cut the stem just above the first set of healthy leaves or buds.
• Dispose of Cuttings: Remove the dead flowers from the garden to prevent any potential disease spread.

2. Pruning

Pruning is another essential step in caring for salvias after flowering. Pruning helps to maintain the shape of the plant and encourages new growth.

• When to Prune: The best time to prune salvias is in late spring or early summer, after the last frost but before new growth begins.
• How to Prune:
  • For herbaceous salvias, cut back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground.
  • For woody salvias, lightly prune to remove dead or damaged growth and shape the plant.
• Benefits of Pruning: Pruning encourages new growth and can lead to a more vigorous plant in the following season.

3. Fertilization

After flowering, salvias may benefit from a light application of fertilizer to support new growth.

• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a high-potash fertilizer to promote blooming.
• Application Timing: Fertilize in early spring before the growing season begins and again in mid-summer if needed.

4. Watering

Watering is crucial for salvias, especially after they finish flowering.

• Watering Frequency: Water deeply but infrequently. Once established, many salvias are drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone. During dry spells, water every 7 to 10 days.
• Avoid Overwatering: Ensure that the soil dries out between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

5. Winter Care

In regions with cold winters, salvias may need special care to survive the frost.

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.
• Cutting Back: In colder climates, wait until late spring to cut back salvias. The foliage provides some protection from winter frosts.
• Container Plants: If you have salvias in pots, consider bringing them indoors or moving them to a frost-free location for the winter.

Propagation

After salvias finish flowering, this is an excellent time to consider propagation. Salvias can be propagated through several methods, including:

1. Cuttings

Taking cuttings is a straightforward way to propagate salvias.

• Timing: The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
• How to Take Cuttings:
  • Select healthy, non-flowering stems.
  • Cut a 4-6 inch section below a leaf node.
  • Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
  • Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water lightly.
  • Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots develop.

2. Division

Dividing established plants is another effective propagation method.

• When to Divide: The best time to divide salvias is in early spring or fall.
• How to Divide:
  • Carefully dig up the plant, ensuring you keep the root ball intact.
  • Use a sharp spade to divide the root ball into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and stems.
  • Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.

Common Problems and Solutions

While salvias are generally hardy plants, they can encounter some issues:

• Fungal Diseases: Overwatering or poor air circulation can lead to fungal diseases. Ensure proper spacing and avoid overhead watering.
• Pests: Salvias can attract aphids and spider mites. Regular monitoring and the use of insecticidal soap can help manage these pests.
• Winter Damage: In colder climates, salvias may suffer from frost damage. Protect tender varieties by mulching and moving potted plants indoors.

FAQ Section

What should I do with salvias after they finish flowering?

After flowering, you should deadhead spent flowers, prune the plants, fertilize if needed, and ensure proper watering.

How do I deadhead salvias?

Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut off spent flowers just above the first set of healthy leaves or buds.

When is the best time to prune salvias?

The best time to prune salvias is in late spring or early summer, after the last frost but before new growth begins.

Can I propagate salvias after they finish flowering?

Yes, you can propagate salvias through cuttings or division after they finish flowering.

How do I care for salvias in winter?

In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plants and wait until late spring to cut back salvias. If in pots, move them indoors or to a frost-free location.

Conclusion

Caring for salvias after they finish flowering is essential for maintaining their health and ensuring vibrant blooms in the next growing season. By following the steps outlined in this article—deadheading, pruning, fertilizing, watering, and providing winter care—gardeners can enjoy the beauty of salvias for many years. Additionally, propagation methods such as cuttings and division allow for the expansion of your salvia collection, making them a rewarding addition to any garden.

This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights into caring for salvias after they finish flowering, ensuring that these beautiful plants continue to thrive in your garden.