When to plant Salvia in London

Plant young salvias into well-drained soil or a roomy pot around 25th April - 16th May. Set them at the same depth they were growing before and space them 45 cm apart. Water in thoroughly straight after planting so the roots settle quickly.

Keep the compost or soil evenly moist from 25th April through the first dry spells after planting. Water at the base, not over the leaves, and let the surface dry slightly between waterings so the roots are encouraged to run deep.

From 19th May, pinch out the tips on young plants to make them bushier, then remove faded flower spikes as they finish. Keep going through 10th November to extend flowering and stop the plant wasting energy on seed.

Tidy the plants after the main flush of flowers around 3rd July - 2nd August. Cut back the stems by about a third, just above fresh growth, and do not cut into old, leafless wood on shrubby types.

Prepare tender or half-hardy salvias for winter during 27th October - 10th November. Move containers to a bright, frost-free place or lift and pot border plants before frost. Leave hardy types standing in cold or exposed gardens, where the top growth helps protect the crown.