When Do Russian Sage Plants Bloom?
Fall often brings mixed feelings to farmers. Although there is still much to do, sometimes it is hard not to wish that the colors of summer would last a little longer. In some cases, that’s true: Russian sage, a popular pollinator choice, maintains its beautiful blooms from mid-summer to mid-fall. Here’s what you need to know about adding this perennial, hardy plant to your yard.
Russian Sage Care and Growing Tips
Scientific name: Perovskia atriplicifolia
Growing areas: 5 out of 9
Lighting requires: Full sun
Size: 3 to 4 in length and about as wide
Raised for: Low maintenance color for dry areas
Leaves: The leaves are green-grey
This perennial packs oodles of color, with lavender and blue flowers that appear in July and bloom into October. The lacy leaves of the Russian sage plant grow on woody stems; just plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. To avoid impaling the plant, place the plant behind a sturdy friend to keep it upright. Cut the plants back to 4 inches in late winter or early spring for compact growth, or grow compact varieties.
Check out 10 purple perennials to plant for beauty each year.
Benefits of Growing Russian Sage
Many classic hummingbird flowers end their growing season in late summer and early fall, but not the Russian sage! Migrating hummingbirds need sources of nectar to continue their epic journey south, so encourage them to stop by and fill up on this late-season flowering plant.
As if the benefits of the hummingbird were not enough, this plant provides a pleasant aroma, too. One of the reasons we love it is that the sweet-smelling leaves add a nice scent to the spring garden cleanup. And finally, it’s a tried and true army; besides being resistant to deer and rabbits, it tolerates heat, wind, drought and poor soil.
Crops You Must Try
Blue Jean Baby combines green tones with short stems, or enjoy Denim ‘n Lace’s bright, purple-blue flowers for color through fall.
Sources
- Walter’s Gardens, Inc.
- Proven Winners
- Monrovia
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- Farming Know How
The post Grow Russian Sage Plants For Fall Color appeared first on Birds & Flowers.
Source link
