The Beauty of Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to gardening, there are few things more rewarding than watching your plants grow and thrive. However, with so many different species and varieties available, it can be difficult to decide what to plant. That's where bordeau steel blue meadow sage comes in. This stunning perennial is a must-have for any garden, offering not only beauty but also hardiness and versatility. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at bordeau steel blue meadow sage, from its origins to its care requirements and everything in between.

What is Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage?

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage, also known as Salvia nemorosa 'Bordeau Steel Blue', is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Europe, where it grows wild in meadows and along roadsides. The plant typically reaches a height of 18-24 inches and has an upright growth habit. The leaves are dark green and lance-shaped, while the flowers are tubular and range in color from deep purple to blue-violet.

Origins of Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is a cultivar of Salvia nemorosa, a species of sage that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant was first introduced to North America in the early 1900s and has since become a popular garden plant due to its hardiness and attractive flowers. The cultivar 'Bordeau Steel Blue' was developed in the Netherlands in the 1990s and has since gained popularity among gardeners worldwide.

Growing Conditions

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, although it can tolerate some drought once established. The plant is also tolerant of heat and humidity, making it a good choice for gardens in warmer climates.

Soil Requirements

When it comes to soil, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage prefers a slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate most soil types, as long as they are well-drained. To improve soil drainage, you can add compost or sand to the planting area before planting.

Watering

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage requires regular watering during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the plant is fairly drought-tolerant and can tolerate some dry spells. However, it's important to water the plant deeply when you do water it, rather than giving it light, frequent waterings.

Fertilizing

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage does not require much fertilization, but you can give it a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.

Care and Maintenance

While Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is a hardy plant, there are a few things you can do to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant.

Pruning

One of the key maintenance tasks for Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is pruning. You should prune the plant back by about half its height after its first bloom in early summer. This will encourage the plant to produce a second flush of flowers later in the season. You can also deadhead the spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage more blooms.

Dividing

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is a clump-forming plant that can become crowded over time. To keep the plant healthy and prevent it from becoming too large, you should divide it every 3-4 years. Divide the plant in the spring or fall, using a sharp spade to separate the clumps into smaller sections.

Pest and Disease Control

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is generally pest and disease-resistant, but there are a few issues to watch out for. The plant can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions, so make sure to provide good air circulation around the plant. You may also need to watch out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers.

Uses for Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage

In addition to being a beautiful garden plant, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage has a number of other uses.

Cut Flowers

The long stems and colorful flowers of Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage make it an excellent cut flower. Simply cut the stems when the flowers are fully open and place them in a vase with water.

Culinary Uses

While Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is not commonly used in cooking, the leaves have a pleasant aroma and can be used as a garnish or infused in tea.

Medicinal Properties

Like many members of the sage family, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It is said to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and can be used to treat a variety of ailments, from sore throats to digestive issues.

Companion Planting

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is an excellent companion plant, as it attracts a variety of beneficial insects and pollinators to the garden. It pairs well with other sun-loving perennials, such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and yarrow.

Planting Combinations

For a striking combination, try planting Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage with bright yellow coreopsis or orange-hued echinacea. You can also create a more monochromatic look by pairing the plant with other shades of blue or purple, such as Russian sage or catmint.

FAQs

1. Is Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage deer-resistant?

Yes, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is generally deer-resistant due to its strong scent and tough leaves.

2. How often should I water Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage?

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage requires regular watering during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the plant is fairly drought-tolerant and can tolerate some dry spells. However, it's important to water the plant deeply when you do water it, rather than giving it light, frequent waterings.

3. How tall does Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage grow?

Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage typically reaches a height of 18-24 inches.

4. Can I grow Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage in containers?

Yes, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system and has good drainage.

5. Does Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage attract pollinators?

Yes, Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

In Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage is a must-have plant for any garden. With its stunning flowers, hardiness, and versatility, it's easy to see why this plant has become so popular among gardeners worldwide. By following the care and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the beauty of Bordeau Steel Blue Meadow Sage in your own garden for years to come.