Salvias are a diverse group of plants, and their ability to come back year after year depends on the specific variety and the climate in which they are grown. There are two main types of salvias: herbaceous perennials and tender perennials.
Herbaceous perennial salvias, such as Salvia nemorosa and Salvia x sylvestris, are known for their hardiness and reliability in returning year after year. These plants have a dormant period during the winter months, where their foliage dies back, but their roots remain alive underground. In the spring, new growth emerges from the base of the plant, and they continue to grow and bloom throughout the growing season. These salvias are well-suited for colder climates and can withstand freezing temperatures without much issue.
On the other hand, tender perennial salvias, such as Salvia greggii, have a bit more variability in their ability to come back year after year. These salvias are not as cold hardy as their herbaceous counterparts and may require some protection during the winter months in colder climates. In milder regions, they may be able to survive without any special care. However, in colder areas, it is advisable to provide some winter protection, such as mulching or covering the plants with a frost blanket, to increase their chances of surviving the cold temperatures.
Personal experience has shown that tender perennial salvias can be a bit more finicky and may not always reliably return year after year, especially in colder climates. However, with proper care and protection, they can often survive and continue to grow and bloom for multiple seasons. In some cases, they may benefit from being treated as annuals or brought indoors during the winter months to ensure their survival.
It is worth noting that individual cultivars within each type of salvia may have different hardiness levels, so it is always a good idea to check the specific requirements and recommendations for the variety you are growing. Additionally, factors such as soil conditions, sunlight exposure, and overall plant health can also impact the ability of salvias to come back year after year.
Herbaceous perennial salvias are generally hardy and can reliably come back year after year, while tender perennial salvias may require some winter protection in colder climates. However, with proper care and attention, salvias can be long-lasting and rewarding additions to any garden.
