When to plant Sage in Oxford

Sow seeds thinly around 27th February - 13th March on the surface of fine seed compost, then cover with a very light dusting of compost or vermiculite. Keep the tray in a warm, bright place and just moist until germination.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out from 20th March into small pots. Keep the strongest plants and handle them gently to avoid damaging the roots.

From 24th April, move plants outside for a few hours each day over about 10 days. Keep them sheltered and bring them in if cold nights are forecast.

Set plants in their final position from 8th May in full sun and very free-draining soil, spacing them 45 cm apart. Water in thoroughly straight after planting, then allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as sage dislikes wet roots.

From 13th May, pinch out soft growing tips regularly to keep the plant bushy and to delay flowering. Stop pinching by 11th July so the plant hardens off before colder weather arrives, and never cut hard into old bare wood.

Pick a few leaves from 28th May once plants are well rooted, then keep harvesting little and often through 10th August. Take tips for the best flavour and leave enough growth for the plant to keep thickening up.