As storms lashed the East and West coasts this past autumn, many other parts of the nation experienced extended dry weather. Lack of moisture in the soil and surrounding atmosphere for months at a time can damage plant roots not receiving supplemental irrigation.

In areas where winter temperatures dip below freezing, you should only water on days when temperatures are above 40 degrees F. A few winter waterings may be sufficient to protect plants from damage. Remember that the majority of Salvias need good drainage year round, but particularly in winter when their waterlogged roots don’t survive hard freezes.