Sage
Scientific Name: Salvia officinalis
Description
Sage is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is characterized by its gray-green, often hairy leaves and woody stem. The leaves have a strong aroma and are commonly used in cooking. Sage produces small, purple-blue flowers that attract pollinators.
Where it Grows
- Mediterranean regions
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- Parts of Asia
Planting
When
- Spring: Ideal for planting in temperate regions after the last frost.
- Fall: Can also be planted in milder climates before the winter.
How
- Soil Preparation: Choose well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Spacing: Plant seedlings or seeds about 12-24 inches apart.
- Depth: Sow seeds to a depth of 1/4 inch if planting seeds.
Care
Watering
- Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
- Avoid over-watering as sage prefers drier conditions.
Thinning
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding once they reach 2-3 inches in height.
Weeding
- Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
Mulching
- Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing
- Fertilize sparingly; over-fertilization may lead to reduced flavor.
Pest Management
- Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites; use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Harvesting
- Harvest leaves as needed; the best time is in the morning after the dew has dried.
Common Problems
- Root Rot: Caused by over-watering.
- Powdery Mildew: Manage moisture and improve air circulation.
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
- High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Supports digestive health and serves as a natural remedy for sore throats.
Nutritional Composition (per 100g)
Nutritional Component | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 315 kcal |
Protein | 10.6 g |
Fat | 6.7 g |
Carbohydrates | 60.7 g |
Fiber | 40.3 g |
Vitamin K | 171.6 �g |
Calcium | 1681 mg |
Iron | 28.1 mg |
Varieties of Sage
- Common Sage (Salvia officinalis)
- Purple Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens')
- Tricolor Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Tricolor')
- Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans)
- Golden Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Icterina')
Health Benefits
- May help improve memory and cognitive function.
- Contains antimicrobial properties.
- Can help alleviate digestive disorders.
Fun Facts
- The word 'sage' comes from the Latin 'salvia', meaning "to be saved," highlighting its medicinal properties.
- Sage has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
- It is often included in rituals and smudging practices for its cleansing properties.