Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the leaves for pests.
- Look for slime trails on the soil surface.
- Check if the leaves are staying wet after watering.
Likely causes
Slugs
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see irregular holes or chewed spots on the young leaves. Look for shiny slime trails on the soil or nearby leaves.
What to do: Pick the slugs off by hand in the evening or early morning. You can also place a shallow dish of beer near the base of the plant to trap them.
Fungal leaf spot
PossibleHow to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo. This often happens if the leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves to stop the spread. Ensure the plant has good air circulation by not crowding it with other plants.
Find out what's wrong with your clary sage
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
Small, occasional holes are normal in a garden setting. Worry if the damage is widespread or if the plant stops producing new growth.
Stopping it coming back
Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the foliage dry, and keep the area around the plant clear of debris.
Clary sage: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your clary sage and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
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Questions people ask
- Are these spots a disease?
- Most spots on Clary sage are caused by pests like slugs or minor fungal issues from wet leaves. They are rarely fatal if caught early.
- Can I use pesticides?
- It is better to use physical barriers or hand picking for slugs. Avoid harsh chemicals as they can harm beneficial insects in your garden.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Clary sage
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.