Bonfire Annual Salvia ignites gardens with vivid scarlet spikes that rise above lush green foliage, delivering a bold splash of color from early summer until frost. This classic Salvia splendens variety stands taller than many modern salvias, making it perfect for filling garden beds, creating striking borders, or adding drama to large containers. Its tubular flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and pollinators, thriving in heat and requiring little fuss once established.
Salvia Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow Bonfire Salvia seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F. This variety loves warmth and is frost-sensitive.
- Location: Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil. It performs best in average to sandy soils and tolerates heat well.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen soil to 6-8 inches deep and mix in compost for fertility. A pH of 5.5-6.5 is ideal, though it adapts to neutral soils.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds on the soil surface and press lightly—do not cover, as they need light to germinate.
- Space seeds or thin seedlings to 10-12 inches apart to support their upright growth.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist until germination (7-14 days). Once established, it tolerates dry spells but benefits from occasional watering.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or pots with drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds on the surface, pressing gently to ensure contact. Avoid burying them.
- Mist soil to keep it moist without soaking.
- Germination:
- Maintain 65-75°F for best results; seedlings emerge in 7-14 days.
- Transplanting: Move outdoors after the last frost when soil is above 65°F and plants have 2-3 true leaves. Space 10-12 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Salvia
- Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily) is essential for vibrant blooms; partial shade is tolerated but reduces flowering.
- Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but prefer consistent moisture in dry conditions. Avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilizing: Add compost before planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer once mid-season for robust growth and blooms.
- Pruning: Deadhead faded spikes to prolong flowering. Pinch young plants after 4 leaves for bushier growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Generally pest-resistant. Watch for slugs in shade; ensure good spacing to prevent mildew in humid areas.
- Harvesting:
- Cut spikes when fully open for fresh arrangements or dry for decor. Harvest above a leaf node to encourage more blooms.
- Storage: Fresh stems last up to a week in water. Dry by hanging upside down in a cool, ventilated space to preserve color.
