gentian sage

Gentian sage should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, but not any deeper than an inch. It should be watered deeply, about once a week or every 5–7 days. The best time to water the plant is in the morning or early evening, as midday watering can cause the leaves to wilt. During especially hot periods, plants may need more frequent watering, or even daily waterings. Overwatering, however, can cause root rot, so the soil should be tested between waterings to ensure it’s not overly wet.

Gentian sage (Salvia patens 'Patio Dark Blue') is a low-maintenance plant species that grows best in full sunlight. These plants require at least 6 hours of sunshine per day to reach their full potential. During the spring and summer months, it is best to give these plants as much direct sunlight as possible—8 to 10 hours are ideal. During the fall and winter, they should receive 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. Too much shade can prevent the plant from flowering. To ensure that your Gentian sage receives enough sunlight, place it in a sunny spot and move it around if necessary.

This species of gentian sage (Salvia patens 'Patio Dark Blue') should be pruned in the late spring or early summer, right after the late frost period has passed. Prune lightly, removing no more than 1-third of the current growth. Prune the stems lightly to improve the shape of the plant, and remove any dead leaves and stems to promote healthier growth. To keep the plant compact, clip off any flowers that have started to fade.