In recent times, gardeners have come to value growing sage for medicinal purposes,cooking purpose. Used properly, herbs offer a safe alternative to many drug therapies.
Sage grown in a healing garden is an old kitchen herb favorite. There are numerous varieties of the popular scrub. Its use as an ancient herb was as a potent condiment for Mediterranean cuisine, fish, and meats.
how to grow sage
Whether you plan a small herb garden or have a large lot to fill, herbs are extremely easy to cultivate. Sage plants grow up to 2 foot tall and make an attractive addition to the landscape.
Keep wormwood out of the herb garden since most herbs such as sage, caraway, anise, and fennel do not fare well when grown nearby. Growing singing nettle close by is a good idea because it enhances the aroma of the sage.
Propagate by layering older bushes or from cuttings in spring and summer. Sage can be found growing wild in warm climates. It is widely grown as a pot herb in a healing garden. The herbs will also start from seed.
Soil
Sage grows best in well-drained, enriched soil. On the other hand, it will grow readily in poor soils as well. The plants prefer full sunlight and to be provided shelter from cold winds.
Care
Snip off points of shoots to encourage bushy growth habits. Renew planting every 4-5 years as shrubs become leggy. Once plants are established, they require only a little fertilizer and watering. Occasionally, pinch out the new tips, which causes branching and keep the plant compact size.
Pest Control
Growing sage in the garden discourages nematodes, which are a microscopic nuisance that invade gardens. The tiny organisms pierce the plant's roots to lay their eggs or to feed.
Harvesting
The leaves are harvested fresh or dried in the shade for cooking purposes. Harvest before flowering for herbal uses or when in flower for oil distillation. Use the freshly picked leaves anytime to season foods like sausages and dressings.
Health Benefits
As healing plants, growing sage was originally used to aid in the digestion of meats and stuffing. Now days, it is included in tradition dishes for its flavor. In the past, sage tea was used to combat sweating. However, drinking hot tea is discouraged because it causes the sage to induce sweat. Drink the tea iced or refrigerated.
An infusion of sage is used to cure depression, anxiety, and liver disorders. Home remedies including the herb improve blood flow and treat symptoms of menopause. The antiseptic leaves make effective gargles for tonsillitis and laryngitis. Other health benefits include as a teeth cleanser and mouth wash.
Uses
Sage lessens the grease and fat found in meats. Its use includes in stuffings for poultry and with onions, tomatoes, beans, eggs, and cheeses. Oils are used in making perfumes.
Clary sage, for example, is a biennial with pink, white, or blue flower. Its leaves are infused as skin healers and gargles. The oil is a source for perfumery and flavoring.
Growing white sage is beneficial in the healing garden as one of nature's best cough and flu remedies. Make an all purpose gargle using 30-60 drops of tincture mixed with warm water. Sage can be added to potpourris and sachets for its natural fragrance.
Gardening is a wonderful remedy for stress, giving you a place of solitude and a healthy outlet from everyday problems. Along with the planting and weeding, it is a great form of exercise as well!