Salvia g. 'Carine's Amazing Blue'®

Overview of Salvia greggii 'Carine's Amazing Blue'

Salvia greggii 'Carine's Amazing Blue' is a captivating perennial known for its striking blue flowers and aromatic foliage. This variety of Salvia, also known as Autumn Sage, is highly valued for its long blooming period, drought tolerance, and attractiveness to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Native to Texas and Mexico, this plant thrives in sunny, well-drained locations, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, borders, and container gardening.

Key Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Salvia greggii 'Carine's Amazing Blue'
• Common Name: Autumn Sage 'Carine's Amazing Blue'
• Family: Lamiaceae
• Origin: Native to Texas and Mexico
• Height: 45-60 cm (18-24 inches)
• Spread: 45-60 cm (18-24 inches)
• Flower Color: Deep blue
• Foliage Color: Green with aromatic scent
• Blooming Season: Spring to fall
• Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 7-10

Planting and Growing Conditions

Ideal Soil and Location

• Soil Type: Prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Can tolerate poor, rocky soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal flowering and growth, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Planting Location: Suitable for garden beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers. Can also be used in xeriscape gardens and as a low hedge or edging plant.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering: Water regularly to establish the plant, then reduce frequency. Once established, 'Carine's Amazing Blue' is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leggy growth.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Hardy to temperatures down to -12°C (10°F). Prefers warm climates but can tolerate occasional cold spells. Mulch in colder zones to protect roots.
• Humidity: Adaptable to varying humidity levels. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Maintenance and Care

Pruning and Deadheading

• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Lightly trim after flowering to maintain shape and promote a second bloom.
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests: Generally resistant to pests but can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
• Diseases: Susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot in poorly drained soils. Ensure proper watering practices, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.

Winter Care

• In-ground Plants: In USDA zones 7-10, 'Carine's Amazing Blue' is hardy and requires minimal winter protection. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to protect the roots and conserve moisture.
• Potted Plants: Move containers to a sheltered location or indoors during severe cold spells. Reduce watering during the dormant period and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.

Propagation

• Cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Remove lower leaves and root in a well-draining potting mix under high humidity conditions.
• Seeds: Can be grown from seed, though cuttings are preferred for maintaining the true characteristics of the hybrid. Sow seeds directly in the garden in late fall or early spring, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
• Division: Can be divided in early spring or fall. Dig up the root ball and separate it into sections with at least one bud or shoot per division.

Companion Planting and Landscaping Uses

Companion Plants

• Ideal Companions: Pairs well with other sun-loving perennials such as lavender, rosemary, coneflowers (Echinacea), and ornamental grasses. The blue flowers of 'Carine's Amazing Blue' complement plants with contrasting colors and textures.
• Arrangement: Use in mixed borders, rock gardens, or as part of a xeriscape garden. Can also be used as a low hedge or edging plant.

Landscape Uses

• Borders and Edging: Ideal for creating colorful borders and edging along pathways and garden beds.
• Rock Gardens: Suitable for rock gardens due to its tolerance of poor, rocky soils.
• Mass Plantings: Can be used in mass plantings for a bold and dramatic display of color.
• Containers: Suitable for containers on patios, balconies, and decks. Mix with other drought-tolerant plants for a vibrant container display.

Benefits and Uses

• Aesthetic Appeal: Offers vibrant blue flowers and aromatic foliage, adding visual interest and fragrance to the garden.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for, with minimal pruning and feeding requirements. Its hardiness and adaptability make it suitable for a range of garden settings.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, 'Carine's Amazing Blue' is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
• Wildlife Friendly: Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting garden biodiversity.
• Versatile Garden Use: Suitable for various garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Tips for Success

• Proper Watering: Maintain consistent moisture during establishment but avoid waterlogging. Once established, water deeply and infrequently.
• Regular Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
• Pruning and Maintenance: Regularly prune to maintain the plant’s shape and health. Remove any dead or diseased wood and manage pests and diseases promptly.
• Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Inspect regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Treat any issues early to prevent serious problems.

By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and extended blooming season of Salvia greggii 'Carine's Amazing Blue' in your garden. This versatile and low-maintenance plant brings color and life to various garden settings, making it a valuable addition to any landscape

• Size
  2L

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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