Salvia Black & Blue Seeds

Salvia Black & Blue Seeds produce one of the most striking and dramatic varieties of Salvia, featuring deep blue flowers paired with dark, almost black stems and foliage. Known for its bold color contrast and resilience, Black & Blue Salvia is an eye-catching addition to any garden. This variety is not only beautiful but also attracts pollinators, making it a perfect choice for a pollinator-friendly garden.

Key Benefits

• Bold, Contrasting Colors: The stunning deep blue flowers contrasted against the dark, near-black foliage make this plant an eye-catching feature in any garden or landscape.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Black & Blue Salvia is a magnet for pollinators, particularly hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and pollinator gardens.
• Extended Blooming Period: This variety produces vibrant flowers from summer until the first frost, offering long-lasting color in your garden.
• Attractive Foliage: The dark, almost black foliage adds an interesting visual dimension to the plant, even when not in bloom.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, Black & Blue Salvia is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and dry gardens.
• Easy to Grow: With minimal care required, this variety is perfect for both experienced and beginner gardeners alike.

Variety Features

• Flower Color: The dramatic deep blue flowers provide a striking contrast against the dark purple to black stems and foliage.
• Flower Shape: The tubular, spike-like flowers appear in clusters, attracting pollinators and creating a beautiful vertical element in the garden.
• Height: Black & Blue Salvia can reach heights of 30–36 inches (76–91 cm), making it suitable for the middle or back of flower beds.
• Blooming Period: Blooms from early summer to fall, providing consistent color throughout the growing season.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, once the soil has warmed.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow for air circulation and healthy growth.
• Soil Requirements: Salvia thrives in well-draining soil, ideally a loamy or sandy mix with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
• Sunlight: Full sun is necessary for optimal flowering and growth. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering.

Fertilization

• Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning

• Remove spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. After flowering, you can cut back the plant to encourage additional growth and a fresh flush of flowers.

Mulching

• Apply mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, keep weeds at bay, and regulate soil temperature during hot weather.

Harvesting

• Cut Flowers: The deep blue blooms make excellent cut flowers. Harvest flowers when they are fully open for the best longevity in floral arrangements.
• Seeds: Allow the plant to set seed and dry on the plant before harvesting. Store seeds in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Storage

• Seeds: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored seeds can remain viable for up to 1–2 years.
• Overwintering: In regions with mild winters, Black & Blue Salvia may overwinter if left outdoors. In colder climates, you can bring container plants indoors for the winter or treat them as annuals.

Conclusion

Salvia Black & Blue Seeds are perfect for gardeners looking to add a striking color contrast to their landscape. With their bold blue flowers, dark stems, and foliage, these plants create a dramatic focal point in any garden. Ideal for attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, they also thrive in full sun and dry conditions once established. Easy to grow and maintain, Salvia Black & Blue is a stunning, low-maintenance addition to flower beds, borders, or containers. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner, this variety will bring beauty and drama to your garden throughout the growing season.