Salvia ‘Chalk White’

Description

Salvia ‘Chalk White’ is a beautiful shrubby perennial featuring fragrant foliage and tall spires of pure-white flowers that bloom from early summer through autumn. With a compact height and spread of around 60cm, Salvia ‘Chalk White’ is perfect for borders, containers, and pollinator-friendly gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Salvia ‘Chalk White’ in spring to give the roots time to establish before flowering begins.
• Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn, giving it time to settle and prepare for vigorous spring growth.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Salvia thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to maximise flowering.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for your Salvia. This plant dislikes waterlogged conditions, so improve drainage with compost or grit if needed.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
2. Enrich the Soil: Mix in organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility and structure.
3. Planting: Place your Salvia into the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Fill in and firm gently.
4. Water In: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and encourage root growth.

Watering Requirements

• Active Season: Water regularly during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during cooler months. Only water when the soil is completely dry to avoid root issues.

Feeding

• Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support fresh growth and strong flowering.
• Mid-Season Boost: A second, lighter feed in mid-summer can promote prolonged flowering of Salvia ‘Chalk White’.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes regularly to encourage more blooms.
• Autumn Cut-Back: Once flowering finishes in autumn, cut Salvia ‘Chalk White’ back to near ground level to support next year’s growth.

Mulching

• Spring: Mulch around the base of Salvia ‘Chalk White’ in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Winter: Apply a thicker layer of mulch in winter to insulate roots from cold temperatures.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: While generally compact, Salvia ‘Chalk White’ may benefit from light support if planted in exposed or windy areas.

Final Tips

Salvia ‘Chalk White’ is an easy-care, pollinator-friendly perennial that adds elegance and brightness to any planting scheme. With fragrant foliage, a long flowering season, and a compact size, Salvia ‘Chalk White’ is ideal for sunny borders or containers. For best results, ensure it is planted in well-drained soil and receives ample sunlight.