Harvesting Sage

Sage is a woody perennial herb that benefits from light, regular harvesting. Proper trimming keeps the plant compact and encourages fresh, flavorful growth.

Care instructions

1. Harvest once established.
   Begin harvesting after the plant is well rooted and has several strong stems. Avoid heavy cutting during the first growing season.

2. Cut young, soft growth.
   Use scissors or pruners to cut flexible green stems. Avoid cutting deep into thick, woody stems, as they recover slowly.

3. Trim above a leaf pair.
   Cut just above a set of leaves to encourage branching and fuller growth.

4. Don’t remove too much at once.
   Harvest no more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent stress.

5. Harvest before flowering for best flavor.
   Leaves are most aromatic before blooming. Regular trimming helps delay flowering.

6. Pick during dry conditions.
   Harvest in the morning after dew has dried for best essential oil content.

7. Store or dry properly.
   Use fresh, refrigerate loosely wrapped, or hang small bundles upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area to dry.