Salvia

Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil in full sun. Salvia nemorosa tolerates poor, dry soils well and actually produces more compact, floriferous growth in lean conditions. Avoid rich, moisture-retentive soil which causes lax, floppy stems. Space plants 30-40 cm apart. Water regularly during the first summer to establish roots, then leave largely to its own devices. Cut back the first flush of flowers as they fade and a strong second display follows within four to six weeks. Apply a light mulch of gravel in autumn to protect the crown from winter wet, particularly on heavy soils.

Cut spent flower spikes back to the basal foliage as they fade to encourage repeat flowering. After the second flush, leave any remaining stems for winter interest. Cut all growth back to 5 cm above ground level in early March before new growth starts.