Autumn Sage Plant Seeds: A Complete Guide to Storing, Sowing, and Germination

Autumn sage (Salvia greggii) is a beautiful flowering perennial that’s a great addition to gardens in zones 6-9. With its vibrant blooms in shades of red pink orange, and white that attract pollinators, autumn sage brings color to the garden from spring to fall.

Many gardeners choose to start their autumn sage from young plants purchased from a nursery. However, growing autumn sage from seeds can be rewarding and cost-effective. This article provides a complete guide to saving, storing, sowing, and germinating autumn sage seeds successfully.

Saving and Storing Autumn Sage Seeds

Autumn sage readily self-seeds in the garden, producing small brown seeds inside dry seed pods. To save seeds for sowing:

• Identify seed pods in late summer/early fall when they turn brown and dry. Pinch them open to access the seeds.

• Separate seeds from pod debris and dry them further indoors for 1-2 weeks.

• Place dried seeds in an airtight container like a glass jar or envelope. Store in a cool, dry spot around 40°F.

• For best viability, use fresh seeds within one year. Discard any that are moldy. Properly stored seeds remain viable for 2-3 years.

When to Sow Autumn Sage Seeds Outdoors

Autumn sage seeds can be directly sown outdoors in late winter or early spring when soil temperatures reach 60°F. This timing gives seeds the warm soil they need to germinate.

In zones 6-8, sow seeds 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost.

In zones 9-10, sow seeds in late winter.

Prepare the planting bed by loosening soil and removing weeds. Scatter seeds atop moistened soil, then lightly cover with 1⁄4 inch of fine soil or compost.

Starting Seeds Indoors

For a head start on the growing season, autumn sage seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before your frost-free date.

Supplies Needed:

• Seed starting tray or pots
• Seed starting mix
• Plastic dome or bag
• Grow lights (optional)

Steps for Starting Indoors:

1. Fill starter tray with moistened seed starting mix.

2. Sow seeds just below the mix surface.

3. Cover tray with plastic to retain moisture.

4. Place in warm spot (~70°F) out of direct sun.

5. Once sprouted, move to bright location.

6. Thin seedlings if needed for adequate space.

7. Transition outdoors after hardening off.

Germinating Autumn Sage Seeds

Autumn sage seeds are not fussy when it comes to germination and will sprout readily indoors or out. Here are some tips for success:

• Soaking seeds in water for 24 hours prior to planting can increase germination rate.

• Maintain consistent moisture – not too wet or dry – for seeds to germinate in 7-15 days.

• Seeds prefer warm soil around 70°F to sprout well.

• Expect a germination rate around 75% for fresh seeds.

• If seeds fail to germinate, they may be old or were planted too early.

Caring for Autumn Sage Seedlings

Once autumn sage seeds have germinated, proper care ensures the seedlings grow up healthy:

• Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soaked.

• Fertilize monthly with a diluted, balanced fertilizer.

• Give seedlings full sun to encourage sturdy growth.

• Thin overcrowded seedlings for adequate spacing.

• Harden off gradually before transplanting outdoors.

• Transplant outside after the last frost when seedlings have 4+ true leaves.

Common Problems When Growing from Seed

Growing autumn sage from seeds is relatively problem-free but watch for these potential issues:

• Seeds fail to sprout – Old seeds, incorrect planting depth, or insufficient moisture typically cause this.

• Leggy, weak seedlings – Not enough light often results in lanky, fragile seedlings. Provide ample sunlight.

• Damping off disease – Fungal disease causes seedling stems to rot at soil level. Avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation.

• Seedlings stunted or yellow – Thin overcrowded starts and fertilize to prevent nutrients deficiencies.

• Seedlings sunburn outdoors – Gradually introduce to full sun over 7-10 days to harden off properly.

Tips and Tricks for Success from Seed

Follow these tips to get the best results when growing autumn sage from seed:

• Start more seeds than needed in case of issues like damping off disease.

• Gently mist soil instead of soaking for moisture-sensitive seedlings.

• Use bottom heat, such as a heat mat, to maintain warm soil temperature.

• Avoid burying seeds too deep – 1⁄4 inch is ideal.

• Monitor moisture levels often and don’t let seedlings dry out.

• Give indoor seedlings 16+ hours under grow lights daily.

• Transplant on a calm, cloudy day to reduce transplant shock.

The Rewards of Growing from Seed

While growing autumn sage from seeds requires more time and care upfront than buying plants, you reap some great benefits:

• Wider variety selection – Grow unique cultivars not found at nurseries.

• Control over plants – Guide seedlings with ideal care from the start.

• Cost savings – Much cheaper than purchasing many starter plants.

• Large numbers of plants – Grow more than you need for extras.

• Satisfaction of growing from seed to bloom.

With the proper approach, sowing and nurturing autumn sage from seed can be an enjoyable and fruitful endeavor for gardeners. Follow this guide to achieve success raising vibrant, healthy autumn sage plants from seed.