Salvias Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Salvias are beautiful flowering plants that add a splash of color to any garden or landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, salvias are a great choice for their ease of care and stunning blooms. One important aspect of growing salvias is understanding how to store, sow, and germinate their seeds. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to successfully grow salvias from seed.

Storing Salvias Seeds

Before storing salvias seeds, it’s essential to ensure that the seeds are mature and fully developed. You can tell if the seeds are ready for harvesting by observing the plant’s flowers. Once the flowers have faded and the petals have fallen off, you’ll notice small seed pods forming. These pods will turn brown or black as they mature.

To harvest the seeds, gently pluck the seed pods from the plant when they are dry and brittle. Place the seed pods in a paper bag or envelope, ensuring they are completely dry before storing them. Moisture can cause the seeds to rot or develop mold.

Store salvias seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. An airtight container such as a glass jar or plastic bag works well for preserving their viability. Label the container with the date of harvest and the specific salvia variety to avoid confusion later on.

Sowing Salvias Seeds

The best time to sow salvias seeds depends on your climate and the specific variety you’re growing. In general, it’s best to sow salvias seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your region.

Start by filling seed starting trays or pots with a well-draining seed starting mix. Moisten the soil before sowing the seeds but make sure it’s not soaking wet. Gently press the seeds into the soil surface, ensuring they are in good contact with the soil.

Salvias seeds are small, so it’s best to sow them thinly to avoid overcrowding. If you’re sowing in trays, space the seeds about 1 inch apart. For individual pots, one or two seeds per pot is sufficient.

Once the seeds are sown, cover them lightly with a thin layer of seed starting mix or vermiculite. This helps retain moisture and provides a conducive environment for germination. Mist the soil surface with water using a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds.

Germinating Salvias Seeds

For salvias seeds to germinate successfully, they require consistent moisture and warmth. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location, preferably between 70-75°F (21-24°C). You can use a seedling heat mat to maintain a constant temperature if needed.

Check the soil moisture regularly and mist if necessary to keep it evenly moist but not waterlogged. It’s essential to avoid drying out or overwatering the seedlings as this can hinder germination.

Salvias seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days, but some varieties may take longer. Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with bright light or place them under grow lights for 12-16 hours a day. This will help promote healthy growth and prevent leggy seedlings.

Transplanting Salvias Seedlings

When the salvias seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, it’s time to transplant them into individual pots or into the garden if the weather permits. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun for optimal growth.

Carefully lift each seedling from its tray or pot, being mindful not to damage the delicate roots. Plant them at the same depth as they were growing in their original container and firm the soil gently around them.

Water the newly transplanted seedlings thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Keep the plants well-watered throughout their growing season, especially during dry spells.

Conclusion

Growing salvias from seeds is a rewarding experience that allows you to witness the entire life cycle of these beautiful plants. By understanding the process of storing, sowing, and germinating salvias seeds, you can successfully grow your own vibrant salvias garden. Enjoy the journey and watch as your salvias seeds transform into stunning flowering plants that will bring joy to your garden for years to come.