I have a sage that is starting to bush out with multiple branches, but I don't need any yet. Should I prune it back to just a couple inches tall? I plan to transplant it into the home garden this fall as it will be like a nursery bush at the end of the season.
asked Jun 27, 2018 at 4:37
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2sage is not an herb, but more like a (very small) tree. You see that it is woody. Do no prune too much. but you can prune some branches. Keep it more dry, and it will growth less.– Giacomo CatenazziCommented Jun 27, 2018 at 9:16
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I'd leave it alone the first couple years. It takes a while to establish. Then cutting a branch or two is OK. They get gangly if you leave branches on to long around here. Your experience, and cultivar, may differ.– Wayfaring StrangerCommented Jun 27, 2018 at 16:57
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the cultivar is pineaple– black thumbCommented Jun 27, 2018 at 20:34
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1 Answer
One needs to define the goal for the plant more specifically.
• If you want the healthiest, most vibrant plant possible right now, don’t prune it. Do give it lots of water, room, etc.
• If you want a neat landscaping plant for the future, perhaps on the formal side, then cut it back to keep it on the small side. But as Giacomo says, don’t overdo it.
• If you want to minimize shock when you transplant it outside, you probably want something in between. Trim whatever gets quite gangly but not more, and don’t overdo the water.
My sage is forgiving, though I haven't grown pineapple sage specifically. That probably allows you a fair range of options, any of which is likely to give you a reasonably healthy plant.
