How to grow Sage in Australia
Grow in full sun in light, well drained soil, as it rots in heavy wet ground. Water sparingly once established and let the soil dry between drinks.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 4 days
- Spacing: 50 cm
- Time to harvest: 75 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to September | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to September | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to September | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to September | Frost-hardy; thrive in Melbourne. Extend window. Sow Mar to Sep. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to September | |
| Perth & WA | March to September | |
| Tasmania | September to November | Sow or plant Sep to Nov. Hardy through winter with good drainage. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to September | Sage is cold-hardy perennial; plant spring-autumn; excellent in dry winters; prune annually to prevent woodiness. |
| North Queensland | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Sage (perennial) prefers drier conditions. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Sage (perennial) prefers drier conditions. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Avoid planting near
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Pick leaves once plants are established and putting on healthy growth. Pinch or snip individual leaves or sprigs; light regular harvesting encourages fresh shoots.
Storage
Fridge loosely wrapped for 1 week. Dry or freeze very well.