Salvias are very drought tolerant plants that tend to shed leaves as needed to conserve energy and stay alive during dry times. During drought periods, they may appear to be struggling, but once the rain returns, they bounce back with an explosion of vibrant colors. Missy, a gardener from Louisville, has had blue salvia growing in her side garden bed for 20 years. Despite the scorching summer, her salvia plants continue to thrive and bring beauty to her garden.
This summer has been exceptionally hot, but a visit with her friend Catherine revealed a stunning display of purple salvias that caught Missy's attention. The vibrant colors and resilience of these plants inspired her to consider adding new varieties to her garden. 'Raspberry Delight', a native hybrid, particularly captured her interest, as she believes it can only be purchased through High Country.
Salvias are known for their ability to withstand drought, making them a popular choice for gardeners in arid regions. They have developed mechanisms to conserve energy during dry times, such as shedding leaves. Although deadheading salvia is not necessary for their survival, it can promote better blooming and overall plant vigor. Missy understands the benefits of deadheading and is willing to put in the effort to ensure her plants flourish.
Autumn sage, a type of salvia, produces tube-shaped flowers that last from fall to spring. These colorful blooms are not only a treat for the eyes but also attract butterflies and other pollinators. Missy appreciates the ecological value of her salvia plants and enjoys the beautiful sight of butterflies fluttering around her garden.
Gardening has been a lifelong passion for Missy, and it all started when she stood beside Dick Welker in the church choir. His love for plants and gardening sparked her interest, and she discovered the vast world of salvia plants. The genus Salvia, commonly called sage, encompasses more than 900 species, including annuals, biennials, herbaceous and evergreen perennials, and shrubs. This diverse range allows gardeners like Missy to explore various options and create unique landscapes.
Salvia plants have a fascinating characteristic in the south of France, where they continue to produce foliage and stems lightly dusted in white, known as 'farinose' in Latin. This unique feature adds an ethereal touch to the plants, making them even more appealing to garden enthusiasts.
In conclusion, gardening on salvia offers a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned gardeners. The resilience and beauty of these plants make them an excellent choice for any garden. Whether it's the vibrant colors, ecological benefits, or the opportunity to create unique landscapes, salvia plants have something to offer to every gardener.
