Salvia is a group of perennial and annual plants in the mint family, grown for upright spikes of tubular flowers in blue, purple, pink, or red. Perennial types like Salvia nemorosa are reliable in Zone 6b and attract bees and hummingbirds while tolerating heat and drought once established.
Most ornamental salvias bloom in early summer and rebloom if cut back after the first flush. They need full sun and good drainage; wet, heavy soil in winter is the main cause of plant loss. Established clumps benefit from division every three to four years.
Sage Root and Crown Rot
Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing lower leaves, blackened soft stems at the base, and brown mushy roots.
Improve drainage and reduce watering. Remove and destroy affected plants. Plant in raised or sandy beds and avoid waterlogged conditions.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Downy mildew
Yellowing on top of leaves with grey-purple fuzz underneath. Spreads rapidly in humid conditions.
Remove affected leaves. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Copper spray as preventive.