Salvia microphylla Delice Aquamarine….stunning new Aqua blue variety which I’m sure will be very popular with collectors. This showy ornamental sage is perfect for cottage garden borders and containers, or incorporated into bedding schemes for a vibrant summer display. Although hardy perennial, this Salvia will appreciate some protection from winter weather. Height: 60cm. Spread: 50cm.

Plants requirements

Always plant shrubby Salvias in spring after late frosts, this will give them the longest period to establish a good, strong root system before the winter. Plants bought later in the season are best overwintered in their pots.

Position

Soil conditions are very important in getting the best from your Salvias, A light free – draining soil in full sun is the ideal spot. In colder parts of the country, find a sheltered spot, such as next to a sunny, south facing wall.

Soils

Salvias don’t require rich humus soil, but like us all they would benefit from a good feeding, I would recommend a scattering of general feed in late spring. They would also benefit from a liquid feed throughout the summer months, high potash would produce more flowering. Salvias can always be planted in tubs and pots giving a riot of colour on any patio throughout the summer, John Innes number 3 would be a suitable compost. Salvias are drought tolerant, so are an especially good choice in areas of low rainfall.

Pruning

Prune top growths of shrubby salvias late march after the frosts, wait until you see new shoots appearing before you chop right back, like hardy fuchsias. A second prune is an option to some which is known as the Hampton Chop, prune in early July around the time of the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show. This would keep plants more compact but at the expense of flowers for 3-5 weeks.