Troubleshooting
Mexican Bush Sage problems — and how to fix them
Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Frost die-back
Top-growth is killed by moderate frost (below about -2°C); in USDA zones 8 and below, mulch the crown heavily in autumn or dig up and store roots frost-free. In the UK, pot specimens and move under glass.
Spider mites in dry indoor conditions
When overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse, spider mites can colonise the dry foliage. Check the undersides of leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil at first sign.
Prevent mexican bush sage problems before they start
Most mexican bush sage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Mexican Bush Sage problems — FAQ
Why is my mexican bush sage frost die-back?
Top-growth is killed by moderate frost (below about -2°C); in USDA zones 8 and below, mulch the crown heavily in autumn or dig up and store roots frost-free. In the UK, pot specimens and move under glass.
Why is my mexican bush sage spider mites in dry indoor conditions?
When overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse, spider mites can colonise the dry foliage. Check the undersides of leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil at first sign.