Rhea Salvia enchants with tall, dense spikes of violet-blue flowers that bloom from early summer to frost, rising above soft gray-green foliage. This compact Salvia farinacea cultivar, a long-time favorite in the Midwest and Eastern US, offers a darker, richer hue than similar varieties like 'Victoria Blue' and excels in resisting storm damage from wind and rain. Ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings, its nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while thriving with minimal care.
Salvia Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow Rhea Salvia seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost, when soil temperatures are above 65°F. This variety is frost-sensitive and prefers warm conditions.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. It thrives in average to sandy soils and tolerates heat and drought.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen soil to 6-8 inches deep and mix in compost. A pH of 5.5-6.5 is suitable.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds on the soil surface and press lightly—do not cover, as light aids germination.
- Space seeds or thin seedlings to 8-12 inches apart for its compact growth.
- Watering: Keep soil moist until germination (10-15 days). Once established, it’s drought-tolerant 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 seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds on the surface, pressing gently. Do not cover.
- Mist to keep soil moist without soaking.
- Germination:
- Maintain 65-75°F; seedlings emerge in 10-15 days with light exposure.
- Transplanting: Move outdoors after the last frost when soil is above 65°F and plants have 2-3 true leaves. Space 8-12 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Salvia
- Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours) for best blooms; tolerates light shade with reduced flowering.
- Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but prefer consistent moisture in dry spells.
- Fertilizing: Add compost pre-planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer once mid-season for vibrant spikes.
- Pruning: Deadhead to prolong blooming. Pinch early for bushier growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Pest-resistant; ensure spacing to prevent mildew in humid conditions.
- Harvesting:
- Cut spikes when fully open for fresh use or dry for decor. Harvest above a leaf node.
- Storage: Fresh stems last a week in water. Dry by hanging upside down in a cool, ventilated area.
