I'm sorry this isn't about Salvia d. - I tried my hand with Sd a couple of times, and at the time (who knows now) there was simply no rapport between the plant and myself. I tried partaking of harvested leaves from a reputable source (a co-op purchase in bulk) and for me, Sd just didn't have anything noteworthy to offer (at that point in my life and haven't been inclined since). I should have trusted my instincts - because the plant did not "call" me to begin with.
At any rate, what I do have an interest in is Salvia apiana - White Sage. I have seeds, I know they need soil right around 75F and light to germinate - but beyond that? Any suggestions?
My reason for wanting to cultivate this species is because of a Mr. D. Brightpath - who is no longer with us. A NA Indian gentleman, I forget which tribe, whom I used to acquire white sage smudge sticks from (the best I had ever used and even after I moved 900 miles away, when my supply ran out I made it a point to still acquire them from him up until his death) -- so, having "done" other sources for such smudge sticks and having been so disappointed, I would prefer to grow my own - but I sure could use some tips for success with this plant before I even sow the seeds. I'm in zone 7 a/b (right in a strange little pocket, so it varies on which map/chart one uses as to whether I am in 7a or 7b).
I generally try to imitate natural habitat for plants, but I find conflicting info on this one (not a surprise, I find that to be the case with many) so anyone with hands-on experience that wouldn't mind speaking up - I'd appreciate it.
Jaeda