Troubleshooting
Sesse's Sage problems — and how to fix them
Sesse's Sage (Salvia sessei) 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 damage
Even a light frost will blacken and kill the soft upper growth; a hard freeze will kill the plant to the ground or entirely. In the UK and northern US, grow in a large container and move under glass before the first frost.
Aphids on new growth
Soft new stem tips are targeted by aphids, particularly in spring; heavy infestations weaken growth and encourage sooty mould. Blast off with a jet of water or apply insecticidal soap spray.
Prevent sesse's sage problems before they start
Most sesse's sage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Sesse's Sage problems — FAQ
Why is my sesse's sage frost damage?
Even a light frost will blacken and kill the soft upper growth; a hard freeze will kill the plant to the ground or entirely. In the UK and northern US, grow in a large container and move under glass before the first frost.
Why is my sesse's sage aphids on new growth?
Soft new stem tips are targeted by aphids, particularly in spring; heavy infestations weaken growth and encourage sooty mould. Blast off with a jet of water or apply insecticidal soap spray.