Seeds can be sown as long as they have been fully ripened. When harvested, they should have a regular shape, be dark brown or black, and have no mold on them.

Meadow sages do not need stratification, but it is possible for it to be too hot for successful germination in the same way cool weather plants stop growing in the dog days of summer.

The optimal temperature for germination is the same as for rooting cuttings. The media needs to be between 70 and 85 degrees for best results. Tropical and xeric species can root and germinate in hotter environments, but not as well.