How to Grow Variegated Sage

Select an area that receives six to eight hours of direct daily sunlight. Although sage will grow in partial shade, flavor will be inhibited.

Dig a hole two to three times the size of the root ball. Add a handful of compost or aged manure to the hole and mix into the soil to improve aeration and drainage. Although sage thrives in poor soil, good drainage is vital.

Position the variegated sage seedlings at their original planting depth. Fill in around the roots with fresh soil. Firm the soil around the base of the plant with your hands to secure the seedlings.

Saturate the soil with water to the root level to replace water lost while transplanting and reduce stress to the seedlings. So the plant can acclimate to its new home, keep the soil moist until seedlings are established and new growth appears. Reduce watering to once a week when seedlings are established.

Mulch around the base of the variegated sage plants with organic mulch to create a weed barrier and enhance the appearance of the plant. Allow 2 to 4 inches around the stem to remain free of mulch.

Harvest variegated sage at any time, once the plant has six to eight mature leaves.

Trim sage back to ground level in spring to encourage new growth. Without trimming, the crown of the plant becomes woody and may not survive successive years.