Salvia farinacea Blue Plus

Salvia farinacea, commonly known as Mealy Cup Sage, is a beautiful perennial plant that is often grown as an annual. If you have Salvia farinacea 'Blue Plus' seeds or plants, here's a guide on how to grow them:

**1. Planting Time:**
- Salvia farinacea can be started from seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sown directly in the garden after the last frost has passed.

**2. Soil Preparation:**
- Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Salvia plants prefer moderately fertile soil.

**3. Sunlight:**
- Plant Salvia farinacea in a location that receives full sun. These plants thrive in bright sunlight.

**4. Sowing Seeds:**
- If starting from seeds, sow them on the soil surface and press them lightly into the soil. Since Salvia seeds require light to germinate, avoid covering them too deeply. Water the area gently after planting.

**5. Transplanting:**
- If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and they are large enough to handle.

**6. Watering:**
- Salvia farinacea is drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment period. Once established, they can tolerate drier conditions.

**7. Mulching:**
- Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

**8. Fertilization:**
- Salvia farinacea doesn't require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season, following the package instructions.

**9. Deadheading:**
- Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Deadheading also helps maintain a tidy appearance.

**10. Pruning:**
- Trim back the plants after the first flush of flowers to encourage bushier growth and potentially stimulate additional blooming.

**11. Pests and Diseases:**
- Salvia farinacea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch for common garden pests like aphids or spider mites and treat any infestations promptly.

**12. Winter Care:**
- Salvia farinacea is often grown as an annual, particularly in colder climates. However, it can be treated as a perennial in warmer zones where it may overwinter.

**13. Wildlife Attraction:**
- Salvia farinacea attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

**14. Container Growing:**
- Salvia farinacea can be grown in containers with well-draining potting mix. Ensure the containers have drainage holes.

Following these guidelines should help you successfully grow Salvia farinacea 'Blue Plus' and enjoy its vibrant blue flowers in your garden. Adjust your care routine based on your local climate and soil conditions.