Sage is a perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 4 through 8. It can be grown as an annual herb in other zones. The plant grows woody after a few years of growth, so dividing it is helpful so it has enough space to thrive. Luckily, transplanting sage seedlings or cuttings is easy.

How deep are Russian sage roots?

Moving Russian Sage Dig a hole 2 1/2 feet wide and as deep as the depth of the Russian sage’s root ball, which is usually about 1 foot.

Can Russian sage be divided?

Leaving division of Russian Sage to the fall will ensure you can divide it while it is not in its active bloom state. It is a good plant for fall color in the garden, to use for dried or cut flowers, or to attract butterflies. Russian sage can be propagated by division every three years in the spring season or fall.

Are Russian sage roots invasive?

Russian sageshould be very near the top of that list for all that it adds to the landscape – color, texture, pollinators and presence. Though it isn’t a native plant, it is not invasive and will stay where you plant it for many years – as long as you give it the well-drained conditions it needs.

When is the best time to transplant Russian sage?

Move your Russian sage to ground that will not flood in the winter or dangerously soak the plants root system. Transplanting Russian sage (also known as Perovskia atriplicifolia) can take place any time during the growing season.

Is it possible to separate a Russian sage plant?

Although Russian sage prefers to be left alone and can be difficult to divide, successful division is often possible. Be patient, because Russian sage can be slow to establish roots. However, once established, Russian sage is a tough plant that will live in your garden for many years.

How tall should a Russian sage plant be?

Cut back Russian sage plants in the spring to create a less floppy, more compact plant. Use the shears to cut them down to a height of about 6 inches tall. Dig around the base of the plant, far enough away from the plant to allow room for the roots. Dig cautiously and if you see roots, pull the shovel out and move it further away from the plant.

Is it legal to grow Russian sage at home?

Patented varieties of Russian sage cannot be legally propagated by home gardeners during the life of the patent. Search the name of the variety of Russian sage that you hope to propagate using the U.S. Patent Office website or a search engine. If the legal status of the plant is in question, it’s safer not to propagate it at home.