Russian sage care guide: when & how to prune, fertilize and spray
Salvia yangii (Perovskia) · USDA zones 4–9
Silvery, airy sub-shrub with lavender-blue flowers from midsummer to fall. Very drought- and deer-resistant.
☀️ Sun
Full sun.
💧 Water
Very low.
🪱 Soil
pH 6.0–8.0. Lean, very well-drained. None. Rich soil causes flopping.
How and when to prune russian sage
Cut back woody stems
When: from 1 week before to 2 weeks after the last spring frost.
- zones 3–5: about May 3–24
- zones 6–7: about Apr 8–29
- zones 8–10: about Feb 18 – Mar 11
Wait for the first new leaves to appear on the woody stems, then cut just above them.
- Cut all stems back to 6–12 in (15–30 cm), just above the lowest healthy set of new buds.
Common russian sage problems and how to fix them
Flopping
Signs: Stems lean open in midsummer.
What to do: Full sun, lean soil, and a late-spring 'Chelsea chop'.
Russian sage care FAQ
When should I prune russian sage?
Cut back woody stems: from 1 week before to 2 weeks after the last spring frost (around Apr 8–29 in zones 6–7). Silvery, airy sub-shrub with lavender-blue flowers from midsummer to fall. Very drought- and deer-resistant.
What soil does russian sage need?
Lean, very well-drained. Preferred pH 6.0–8.0. None. Rich soil causes flopping.
How much sun and water does russian sage need?
Sun: Full sun. Water: Very low.
What are common russian sage problems?
Flopping: Stems lean open in midsummer. Full sun, lean soil, and a late-spring 'Chelsea chop'.
More perennials & grasses care guides
Timings are given relative to your average frost dates, with examples for typical US climates. Always read and follow product labels.