Thursday, September 15, 2011

Annual Blue Salvia


Blue Salvia
Salvia farinacea 'Victoria Blue'

Annual Salvia makes an attractive display in your garden or container and comes in a variety of colors. All have the same general characteristics and likes and dislikes. I will refer to only the blue Salvia pictured above, which has been thriving all summer outside our greenhouse complimented by yellow Gaillardia.
The Victoria Blue Salvia pictured is a true blue color which is a highly sought color in many gardens. It grows 18-24" tall and wide, and the flower spikes can be as long as 8-10". The gray green foliage complements the flowers nicely, and this plant once established is quite drought resistant. Planted in a sunny location in well drained soil, this annual will provide you with masses of color all summer long and well into the fall. As with all annuals, fertilization at least once a week will keep them looking outstanding.
These beautiful blue flowers are very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, but not at all to deer, and do not have to be deadheaded to continue flowering. They really do stand out strikingly in the middle of a container planter with Lantana, Lysimachia, or Calibrachoa around the outside. For easy care, deer resistant, continuous blooming, bright blue color in your gardens or containers next year, try this variety and be amazed at the compliments you get from the neighbors.

By: Sandy Weinkam
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses