Black and blue salvias (Salvia guaranitica) are beautiful plants that look great in any garden. Their flowers are deep purple and electric blue. These salvias do well in garden beds, but their medium-sized, full flowers also make them great for growing in pots. Black and blue salvias grown in pots will produce lots of flowers and add bright color to patios, porches, and other outdoor living spaces if they are taken care of properly.
Choosing the Right Pot Size
When grown in the right conditions, black and blue salvias can grow to be 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. Choose a pot that is at least 18 inches wide, but preferably 24 inches or more, so that the plants can grow to their full size. This lets their long taproot spread out a lot. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
Square, rectangular, or round planters all work well for displaying salvias. For a bold, dramatic look, grow 3 plants together in a large pot. Or plant a single salvia as the centerpiece of a mixed planter combined with smaller annuals and foliage plants.
Where to Site Containers for Optimal Growth
When grown in pots, black and blue salvias require a location with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours per day. Some light afternoon shade is tolerated, especially in hot climates Morning sun with a little shelter from intense mid-day and afternoon sun gives container grown salvias the bright light they love without excessive wilting or dry soil.
Put pots and planters in places where they will get regular water during the growing season. Avoid windy areas that will dry containers out rapidly. It’s usually best to face east or southeast so that the harsh western sun doesn’t hit it. If it gets below 40°F, bring pots of salvias inside or under cover.
Soil Needs for Potted Salvias
Black and blue salvias do best in soil that is rich, fertile, and drains quickly. When you pot or repot salvias, use a commercial potting mix made just for gardening in containers. Another way to make your own good potting soil is to mix equal parts of:
- Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention
- Perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage
- Compost for organic matter and nutrients
Mix in a slow-release granular fertilizer like 10-10-10 or incorporate some worm castings for a nutrient boost. The soil should be loose and fluffy enough for rapid drainage to prevent rotting roots.
Planting and Care Tips
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Plant salvia starts or seedlings when they are around 6 inches tall and all danger of frost has passed. Gently loosen tangled roots before placing in pot.
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Pinch or snip off any flowers in the first 2 months so plants establish roots and foliage before blooming.
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Water container grown salvias when soil is partly dry 1-2 inches deep. Avoid wilted or dried out plants.
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Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season for continual blooms.
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Prune back any dead or damaged growth. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
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Bring pots indoors before frost. Cut back stems by half and keep cool and dry over winter.
Dealing With Pests and Disease
Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and thrips may appear on container grown salvias. Rinse off pests with a strong spray of water and use insecticidal soap as needed. Watch for powdery mildew and downy mildew, treating any fungal disease with an organic fungicide. Improve air circulation between plants to reduce disease risk.
Overwintering Potted Black and Blue Salvias
There are a couple options for overwintering container grown black and blue salvias in cold climates:
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Take cuttings in late summer. Root the cuttings to generate new plants for the following season.
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Before frost, trim back the salvias by about one half. Move the pots to an indoor space like a garage or basement where temperatures stay between 35-50°F. Limit watering and do not fertilize over winter.
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After all danger of spring frost has passed, move pots back outside. Water and fertilize as usual. New growth will quickly appear.
Enjoying Months of Vibrant Color
With their combination of deep purple stems, green foliage, and electric blue blooms, black and blue salvias offer unique beauty and visual impact in patio containers. Follow proper care guidelines for soil, sunlight, moisture, and overwintering to enjoy their colorful show from spring through fall. The hummingbirds visiting your potted salvias will thank you too!
Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Blue’ – SAGE ‘BLACK & BLUE’
Review of Salvia Black and blue.
FAQ
Do black and blue salvias like sun or shade?
It is a member of the Lamiaceae or mint family. “Black and Blue’ salvias enjoys full sun. If planted in too much shade, they tend to flop over and have fewer flowers.
Do salvias do well in containers?
If you want to bring some color and life to your patio or balcony, growing salvia in pots might be the perfect project for you. Renowned for their vivid purple, blue, and red flowers, salvias are not only a visual delight but also relatively easy to care for.