Troubleshooting
Regel's Sage problems — and how to fix them
Regel's Sage (Salvia regeliana) 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.
Crown rot in winter wet
Though reasonably cold-hardy, prolonged winter waterlogging can rot the crown. In heavy clay or regions with wet winters, plant on a slight mound and improve drainage with grit before planting.
Aphid colonies on new shoots
Soft, rapidly growing spring shoots attract aphids, particularly blackfly. Blast off with a jet of water or apply insecticidal soap; beneficial insects such as ladybirds usually control colonies naturally by mid-season.
Prevent regel's sage problems before they start
Most regel's sage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Regel's Sage problems — FAQ
Why is my regel's sage crown rot in winter wet?
Though reasonably cold-hardy, prolonged winter waterlogging can rot the crown. In heavy clay or regions with wet winters, plant on a slight mound and improve drainage with grit before planting.
Why is my regel's sage aphid colonies on new shoots?
Soft, rapidly growing spring shoots attract aphids, particularly blackfly. Blast off with a jet of water or apply insecticidal soap; beneficial insects such as ladybirds usually control colonies naturally by mid-season.