Salvia divinorum cultivation tips

While some folks seem to have problems growing Salvia divinorum, I've found that misting twice a day, keeping the soil moist and fertilizing her regularly using standard Miracle Grow seems to keep her happy. Although some people have indicated that Miracid is better suited for Salvia d., I have found that standard Miracle Grow seems to work much better. Organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion makes the leaves grow extremely dark, excessively curled, twisted and deformed, so until someone shows me an organic that she likes I'd stick with Miracle Grow.

Humidity has to be over 60% or the Salvia will start getting brown/black areas on the leaves. If your climate isn't that humid, perhaps a humidity tent will keep them happy and healthy. Those of you that live in Florida, Louisiana, Georgia, Hawaii or California my be able to get away with gardening in the open, without a tent. Salvia likes partial sun, no more than 3 hours of direct sunlight a day is best. Salvia that is exposed to too much sunlight gets very yellow, and the leaves fall off eventually, causing the plant to wither and die. A healthy Salvia plant needs plenty of root room--although the plant will grow while root-bound, it thrives with breathing room for its roots.

Pruning should be done regularly after it reaches two feet tall, giving you lots of leaves to play with and/or stem cuttings to grow more Salvia. By cutting the tops of the leaves about 3 inches from the top, stripping off most of the large leaves, and placing the cutting in water, within a couple weeks you'll have new Salvia cuttings.

Flowering usually takes place in the fall, however I've seen Salvia flower almost continually. The flowers have a sweet smell, but do not seem to be any more potent than other parts of the plant. 

Insects are not usually a problem with Salvia, but always be well aware of your plants. Look closely under the leaves for spider mites, one of Salvia's most persistent enemies. The use of soap/oil insecticides seem to do well at eradicating this pest, although some of the leaves may be burnt in the process. Keeping the plants constantly moist seems to ward the mites off, and insect controls such as predatory mites can be used effectively against such pests. Aphids, scales and thrips are also munchers that should be watched for, although they are usually less of a problem than spider mites.

The Salvia can be a wonderful ally, if used wisely and with purpose. Frivolous use of Salvia will ensure that it joins the long list of illegal plants and substances. By growing and getting to know Salvia, you are protecting the wonderful plant from extinction, growing a potent entheogenic substance, cleaning our air, ensuring yourself an unadulterated source of Salvia leaf, making a new friend, and contributing to our pool of knowledge. Good luck in your quest. Say hi to her for me!