Troubleshooting
Wood Sage problems — and how to fix them
Wood Sage (Teucrium scorodonia) 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 heavy or wet soils
Stems turn black at the base and the plant dies back rapidly if planted in poorly drained or persistently wet soil; always plant in free-draining, lean conditions.
Excessive rhizome spread
In favourable conditions wood sage can spread aggressively by underground rhizomes; divide every 3 years and remove unwanted runners to keep the plant contained.
Prevent wood sage problems before they start
Most wood sage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Wood Sage problems — FAQ
Why is my wood sage root rot in heavy or wet soils?
Stems turn black at the base and the plant dies back rapidly if planted in poorly drained or persistently wet soil; always plant in free-draining, lean conditions.
Why is my wood sage excessive rhizome spread?
In favourable conditions wood sage can spread aggressively by underground rhizomes; divide every 3 years and remove unwanted runners to keep the plant contained.