Comparing Meadow Sage varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Meadow Sage family and have some observations to share. naturalistic aesthetic that suits modern ecological gardens varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — sowing directly into poor soil as rich soil encourages weeds applies across all of them.

poor germination in compacted or clay soils affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a wildflower meadow replacing lawn areas which works well for most varieties. seed setting and dispersal in late summer is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.