Diseases of Sage

Sage (Salvia officinalis), also known as common, garden, or Spanish sage, is a perennial, shrubby, culinary herb. It is used as a flavoring, for its medicinal properties, and as a landscape plant. Unless otherwise indicated, this chapter refers to Salvia officinalis. Except for fungal diseases, there is little data on the impact and management of diseases of sage. The profitability of this herb can be decreased by a number of fungal or fungus-like diseases including downy mildew, Fusarium wilt, Phytophthora crown and root rot, and powdery mildew. Management strategies for sage diseases include the use of biological control, cultural practices, fungicides, physical methods, and sanitation.