5 germination tips to help you grow Salvia pratensis 'Madeline' from seed:
 
1. Cold Stratification (Chill the Seeds)
Salvia pratensis seeds have a natural dormancy that often requires cold stratification to encourage germination. This step mimics the winter conditions the seeds would naturally experience.
 
How to do it: Place the seeds in a moist paper towel, sphagnum moss, or a plastic bag with some damp sand. Refrigerate the seeds at 1-5°C (34-41°F) for 2–4 weeks. This cold period helps to break the seed's dormancy and triggers the germination process.
 
2. Soak Seeds Before Sowing
Soaking the seeds for a short period can help soften the seed coat and encourage faster water absorption, leading to quicker germination.
How to do it: Soak the seeds in room temperature water for 12–24 hours before planting. Be careful not to soak for too long, as overly moist conditions can lead to fungal issues.
 
3. Surface Sowing (Don’t Bury the Seeds)
Salvia seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be buried deeply.
 
How to do it: Scatter the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix (a mix of peat and perlite works well). Lightly press the seeds down into the soil with a flat tool to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, but don’t cover them with soil. Mist the surface gently with water to keep the seeds moist.
 
4. Provide Warmth & Light
Salvia seeds need warmth and light to germinate. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18–24°C (65–75°F).
 
How to do it: Place your seed tray or pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Using a seedling heat mat can help maintain a steady temperature if your room is cooler. If you don’t have access to grow lights, place the seed tray near a south-facing window where it can get some light, but avoid direct sunlight, which can overheat the seeds.
 
5. Maintain Consistent Moisture (But Don’t Overwater)
Salvia seeds need consistent moisture to germinate, but the soil should not be soggy, as this can cause the seeds to rot.
 
How to do it: Mist the soil surface regularly to keep it slightly moist, but ensure there is good drainage in the container. A humidity dome or clear plastic cover can help retain moisture and humidity, but be sure to allow for some airflow to avoid mold growth. Once the seeds have germinated, you can reduce the moisture level slightly.
 
Bonus Tip: Patience & Transplanting
Salvia pratensis 'Madeline' seeds may take 10 to 20 days to germinate, so patience is key. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, you can begin to harden them off by gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions. If you’re growing them in pots, transplant them into larger containers or into your garden once they’re strong enough, making sure they get full sun and well-drained soil.