Troubleshooting
San Diego Sage problems — and how to fix them
San Diego Sage (Salvia munzii) 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.
Root rot in wet soils
Poorly draining or clay soils cause fatal root rot, especially in winter; amend with coarse grit before planting and avoid any supplemental irrigation in the rainy season.
Summer dormancy browning
Without summer irrigation the plant goes fully dormant and looks dead; this is normal — a monthly deep watering during summer maintains green foliage, or simply wait for autumn rains.
Prevent san diego sage problems before they start
Most san diego sage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
San Diego Sage problems — FAQ
Why is my san diego sage root rot in wet soils?
Poorly draining or clay soils cause fatal root rot, especially in winter; amend with coarse grit before planting and avoid any supplemental irrigation in the rainy season.
Why is my san diego sage summer dormancy browning?
Without summer irrigation the plant goes fully dormant and looks dead; this is normal — a monthly deep watering during summer maintains green foliage, or simply wait for autumn rains.