Salvia 'Oxford Blue'

Oxford Blue Salvia (Salvia viridis)

Bring a delightful display of colour to the garden with Oxford Blue Salvia, also known as annual clary sage. This easy-to-grow plant boasts vibrant deep blue bracts that form dense flower spikes, creating a beautiful and long-lasting spectacle. Productive and densely branched, it produces an abundance of strong stems, allowing for multiple cuts throughout the season. These versatile blooms are wonderful for casual fresh bouquets, stunning dried arrangements, and are a magnet for pollinators. With a romantic, whimsical feel, this salvia is a resilient addition to any garden, tolerant of frost and perfect for adding continuous colour.

DETAILS:

QTY; 50

SITE: Full Sun

TYPE: Annual

DEPTH: Surface Sow

GERMINATION: 5 - 12 days at 24-26°C

HEIGHT: 30-40"

MATURITY: 80 - 95 Days

SPACING: 12 - 18"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Transplanting (recommended): Sow seeds into 72-cell flats or small containers 5–7 weeks before your average last frost date. Gently press seeds into the soil, covering only enough to hold them in place, as light is required for germination. Bottom water or mist lightly to avoid covering the seeds with displaced soil. Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into larger containers or cell packs. Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow 2-4 seeds every 12-18" directly into the garden after your last frost date. Lightly press the seeds into the soil surface. Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to a final spacing of 12-18" apart.

Soil Preference: Salvia thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable but performs best in soil that isn't overly rich. Avoid planting in areas with poor drainage, as this can lead to root rot.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period and while young seedlings are becoming established. Once mature, salvia is very drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Pinching and Deadheading: To encourage a bushier plant with more blooms, pinch back young salvia plants when they are 6-8 inches tall. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season will also promote continuous blooming.

Fertilizing: Salvia is a low-maintenance plant that does not require heavy fertilizing. Amending the soil with compost before planting is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen formulas, can lead to excessive foliage and fewer flowers