Where to best plant Salvia patens 'Patio Deep Blue'

Dartana Plants love their Salvia patens especially The 'Patio Deep Blue' variety probably with its vibrant blue flowers, which is a common trait for this species. 

First, I should think about the plant's native habitat. Salvia patens is from Mexico. That means it's used to warmer climates, maybe with well-draining soil. But the UK's climate is temperate maritime, which is cooler and wetter, especially in the north. So, the main challenge would be ensuring it gets enough warmth and isn't waterlogged.

A south-facing position would maximize sunlight exposure. However, some parts of the UK can still have harsh sunlight, but maybe not as much as Mexico. Wait, but in the UK, south-facing spots get the most sun, so that's a good start.

Soil type: Salvias generally prefer well-draining soil. The UK has a lot of clay soil, which retains water. If the soil is heavy clay, it might need amending with grit or organic matter to improve drainage. Alternatively, raised beds or containers could be better options to prevent waterlogging, especially during wet winters.

Drainage: Critical here because if the soil stays wet, the roots might rot. So planting in a spot that doesn't collect water, perhaps on a slope or raised area. Maybe adding gravel or sand to the soil.

Shelter: The UK can be windy, especially in exposed areas. Salvias might not like strong winds, so planting them near a wall or fence could provide shelter. South-facing walls also absorb heat during the day and radiate it at night, which could help in cooler climates.

Containers: The 'Patio' in the name suggests it's suitable for containers. Containers allow control over soil and drainage. Plus, they can be moved to sheltered spots or indoors during bad weather. So maybe recommending containers in areas with poor soil or colder winters.

Companion planting: Maybe not necessary here, but considering plants with similar needs. Other Mediterranean herbs or drought-tolerant plants that like well-draining soil.

Feeding: Salvias don't usually need rich soil, so over-fertilizing might lead to leggy growth. But a balanced feed during growing season could help.

Watering: Regular watering but allowing soil to dry out between. Overwatering is a risk, especially in the UK's rainier regions.

So putting this all together: The best spot would be a south-facing location with maximum sunlight, sheltered from wind (like near a wall or fence), in well-draining soil amended with grit or compost. If the garden soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds or containers. In colder areas, either treat as an annual or overwinter the tubers indoors. Mulching in autumn can help protect the roots. Containers offer flexibility for moving the plant if frost is expected.

Wait, I should check if Salvia patens is tuberous. Some sources say it grows from tubers, which can be lifted and stored like dahlias. So in the UK, after the first frost, you'd lift the tubers, dry them, and store in a frost-free place over winter. Then replant in spring. So if planted in the ground, you have to dig them up each year. Alternatively, in containers, you can just move the container indoors.

Another thought: Maybe partial shade in the hottest part of the day? But in the UK, the sun isn't that intense, so full sun is probably better. Unless it's a particularly hot spot, but that's rare in the UK.

Also, considering rainfall. If planted in the ground, ensure that the site doesn't get waterlogged. Adding organic matter can improve drainage, but maybe creating a mound or raised bed would help.

So the key points are sun, drainage, shelter, and winter protection. The best location is a sunny, sheltered spot with good drainage, possibly in a container for easier management.

To optimally plant Salvia patens 'Patio Deep Blue', consider the following guidelines:

1. Sunlight:

   • Choose a south-facing location for maximum sunlight exposure. This plant thrives in full sun, which is crucial in the UK's cooler climate to encourage blooming and healthy growth.

2. Soil and Drainage:

   • Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Amend heavy clay soils with grit, sand, or organic matter.
   • Consider raised beds, mounds, or containers (the 'Patio' designation suits pots) to enhance drainage, especially in wetter regions.

3. Shelter:

   • Plant in a sheltered spot, such as near a wall, fence, or hedge, to protect from strong winds and benefit from radiant heat (south-facing walls are ideal).

4. Winter Protection:

   • In colder areas (northern UK or frost-prone zones), treat as an annual or lift tubers after the first frost. Store them in a dry, frost-free place over winter, similar to dahlias.
   • For container planting, move pots to a greenhouse or sheltered area during winter.
   • Apply a thick mulch (e.g., straw, bark) in autumn to insulate ground-planted tubers.

5. Watering and Feeding:

   • Water regularly but allow the soil to dry between sessions. Avoid overwatering.
   • Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly during the growing season to avoid leggy growth.

6. Companions:

   • Pair with other sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants like lavender, rosemary, or pelargoniums for a cohesive display.

Summary: The ideal location is a sunny, sheltered spot with free-draining soil.