A very pretty, compact salvia with two tone purple and pink flowers and scented leaves that make a stunning display from late spring to autumn. Height 50cm. Spread 40cm. Full sun/partial shade. Prefers moist but well drained soil. Hardy.
Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ is a compact, long-flowering perennial with aromatic, silvery-green foliage and stunning two-tone pink and purple flowers. Blooming from late spring to autumn, this eye-catching plant attracts bees and other pollinators, making it a fantastic addition to wildlife gardens, borders, and patio containers. Hardy and low-maintenance, Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist but well-drained soil.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ is in spring when the soil has warmed. This allows the roots to establish before the blooming period.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn also works well, giving the plant time to settle before winter dormancy, ensuring a strong start the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Salvia thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage prolific flowering.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Salvia. It prefers moist but well-draining conditions and does not tolerate waterlogging. Enhance the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball to allow space for root expansion.
Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or well-rotted organic matter to enrich the soil and aid moisture retention without waterlogging.
Planting: Position Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ in the hole, keeping the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the plant settle. Ensure proper drainage to avoid excessive moisture retention.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ is drought-tolerant. Water deeply during dry spells but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering in late autumn and winter. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote strong growth and abundant blooms.
Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer supports continued flowering and keeps Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ healthy throughout the growing season.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Autumn Pruning: After the flowering season ends, cut back Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ to keep it compact and prepare it for the colder months.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: Mulching before winter provides root protection and helps prevent frost damage.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ is a compact variety, so staking is usually unnecessary. However, in exposed locations, consider providing support to prevent wind damage.
Final Tips
Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ is a low-maintenance perennial that delivers stunning two-tone pink and purple flowers from late spring to autumn. By planting in well-drained soil and following these care tips, you’ll enjoy a long-lasting, vibrant display. Whether grown in borders, containers, or wildlife gardens, Salvia ‘Strawberry Melba’ attracts pollinators and adds a splash of colour to any outdoor space.
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