Sage Planting Guide
Earthy, savory perennial herb prized in stuffing, meat dishes, and herbal medicine
Best Time and Place to Plant Sage
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Sage in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 85F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 15 to June 15 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 10 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 1 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | April 20 to May 30 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 15 to May 25 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 10 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | March 20 to May 10 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 10 to May 1 | August 1 to September 15 |
| Zone 10 | February 15 to April 15 | August 15 to October 1 |
| Zone 11 | January 15 to March 15 | September 1 to November 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to March 1 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 18 inches apart, 24 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 60F to 85F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water every 7-10 days; drought tolerant; excellent drainage essential
- Days to harvest: 75
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Light feeding once in spring
- Compost organic: 0.5 inch dressing in spring
Companion Plants
- Carrots
- Brassicas
- Tomatoes
- Rosemary
Avoid Planting Near
- Cucumbers
- Onions
Harvest Signs
- Harvest light crops in the first year to let plant establish
- Full harvest from year 2 onward
- Pick leaves before flowering for best flavor
- Cut back heavily after flowering to encourage new growth
FAQs
When should I plant Sage?
Sage planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Sage?
The best time of year to plant Sage is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 60F to 85F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Sage?
Plant Sage in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 85F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Sage?
Plant Sage about 18 inches apart, with rows around 24 inches apart.
What grows well with Sage?
Sage is commonly paired with Carrots, Brassicas, Tomatoes, Rosemary.