Although it is not necessarily vital, it is definitely necessary for proper growth and the varietal purity of the bed - the regular and well-planned pruning of the steppe sage. At the same time, you ensure the he alth of your plants.
When and how should you cut steppe sage?
You should cut the steppe sage radically either in autumn or spring, ideally a hand's width above the ground. Regularly remove diseased and dry shoots as well as flowered inflorescences to prevent uncontrolled propagation. A repair cut is possible to stimulate a second flowering.
The easy-care steppe sage likes rather dry soil and loves a sunny, warm location. If it feels comfortable, it will bloom profusely and grow itself. Unfortunately, these seeds are not pure.
Is steppe sage suitable as a cut flower for the vase?
The steppe sage has many uses. The leaves and flowers are edible, but the plant is also very suitable as a cut flower for the vase. The mostly blue flowers fit perfectly into colorful bouquets or can be used tone-on-tone with ornamental onions, irises or cranesbills.
When is the best time to cut steppe sage?
For radical pruning, you can choose between autumn and early spring. Only cut in spring, then the old leaves will protect your steppe sage from possible frost damage in winter. If you would rather have a “tidy” garden, then prune in the fall and cover your steppe sage with some leaves.
How do you cut steppe sage correctly?
The ideal cutting height for radical cutting is about a hand's width above the ground. However, be sure to avoid cutting into the old wood, the steppe sage doesn't like that at all. You should always remove diseased and dry shoots as soon as you discover them.
To prevent the steppe sage from seeding itself, remove the bloomed inflorescences in good time. This is how you prevent your steppe sage from multiplying uncontrollably. However, it can also be very exciting not knowing what colors and shapes the future generations will have.
So-called remontant pruning refers to the complete pruning of a plant after flowering. It is intended to encourage this plant to bloom a second time. The second flowering of steppe sage occurs in September.
The most important cutting tips for steppe sage:
- Pruning in autumn or spring
- ideal cutting height: a hand's width above the ground
- Removal cutting possible
Tip
With a radical pruning after flowering, you can encourage your steppe sage to bloom again.