Salvia splendens Seeds

Growing Salvia splendens from Seed in Jordan

1. About the Seeds and Plants

Salvia splendens is a summer-flowering ornamental perennial commonly grown as an annual. Its bright tubular flowers in red, orange, pink or purple add an elegant appearance to gardens and paths. Salvia is known for resilience, easy cultivation and its ability to attract butterflies and bees.

Benefits of Growing Salvia

Continuous flowering throughout the season with suitable care. Suitable for hanging baskets, gardens and landscaped areas. Tolerates heat but needs frost protection. A robust plant resistant to pests and diseases when well cared for.

2. Detailed Instructions for Growing Salvia from Seed

A. Soil Preparation: 10 Days Before Planting

• Salvia needs light, well-drained soil, such as sandy clay soil or a peat-rich growing medium.
• A soil pH of 6-7 is preferred for good nutrient uptake.
• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.
• Cultivate and aerate the soil to ensure good drainage.

B. Gardening Tools and Supplies

• A garden spade for soil preparation.
• High-quality Salvia splendens seeds.
• A hand sprayer or drip irrigation system.
• Pruning shears to remove faded flowers and stimulate new blooms.

C. Sowing in Jordan: Months 2-4 and 8-10

• Sow salvia in late winter and early spring (February-April), or at the end of summer (August-October).
• Scatter seeds on the soil surface and cover with a very light layer of soil, approximately 0.5 cm.
• Space plants 25-30 cm apart for good airflow and healthy growth.
• Water with a fine mist to maintain even moisture without waterlogging.

D. Germination: 7-14 Days After Sowing

• Seeds require a temperature of 20-25°C for successful germination.
• Keep the soil moist without flooding it to prevent root rot.
• After seedlings emerge, gradually reduce watering to encourage deeper roots.

E. Plant Care: Months 1-6

Watering: water salvia moderately every 2-3 days, avoiding overwatering. Feeding: use balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer, as detailed below. Pruning: remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms and bushier growth. Light: provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for strong, abundant flowers.

F. Flowering: Months 2-10

• Salvia begins flowering 6-8 weeks after sowing.
• Flowering continues for a long period, especially with feeding and removal of faded flowers.

3. Fertilizer Program: NPK 20-20-20

Base Fertilization: 10 Days Before Planting

• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.

Feeding During Growth

• Month 1: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre after seedlings emerge.
• Month 2: apply 15 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to encourage vegetative growth.
• Month 3: apply 20 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to support abundant flowering.
• Months 4-6: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 every two weeks to maintain continuous flowering.

4. Common Salvia Pests and Their Control

• Aphids cause distorted leaves and weak growth. Control: spray horticultural soap or Actara insecticide.
• Red spider mites cause yellowing and wilting leaves. Control: use neem oil or abamectin.
• Powdery mildew appears as white patches on leaves. Control: use Score or Topaz fungicide.
• Slugs and snails feed on young leaves. Control: use a slug and snail bait such as metaldehyde.
• Root rot results from overwatering. Improve soil drainage and reduce watering.

5. Additional Tips for Growing Salvia in Jordan

Sow from February to April (2-4) or August to October (8-10) for healthy growth. Salvia needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid overwatering: its roots are very sensitive to excess moisture. Grow in pots or directly in the garden, ensuring good drainage. Regularly remove faded flowers to prolong flowering and stimulate new blooms.

Summary

Salvia splendens is a beautiful summer ornamental for home gardens, with brightly coloured flowers and straightforward care. Balanced watering, suitable 20-20-20 feeding and removal of faded flowers can provide abundant, long-lasting blooms that enhance a garden or balcony.