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Growing-Russian-Sage-in-Containers.jpg

Growing Russian Sage in Containers

In your book, there's a mention of using Russian Sage as a vertical interest in containers. Can they stay in the containers throughout the winter, or do they need to be brought in or planted in ground before frost?

Leaving perennials in above ground containers is always risky for northern gardeners. You have a couple of options. Plant your perennial container garden in an old nursery pot that fits within the decorative container. In the fall lift the nursery pot out of the decorative container and sink it in a vacant area of the garden. Or move the container into an unheated garage for winter. Water thoroughly whenever the soil is thawed and dried. Or move the perennials into the garden in fall. Then start with new plants the following spring. Some gardeners buy smaller perennial plants and treat them like annuals. Recycle them in the compost pile if you are feeling a bit guilty.

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