Creating a mini sage garden in an outdoor plant box is a delightful way to grow fresh herbs even in limited spaces. Follow these simple steps to design your own aromatic oasis:

1. Choose the Right Plant Box: Select a sturdy, well-draining outdoor plant box with enough depth (at least 8-12 inches) for sage roots to thrive. Wooden or ceramic boxes work well.

2. Prepare the Soil: Sage prefers well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Mix potting soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage and add compost for nutrients.

3. Plant Sage Seedlings or Seeds: Space sage plants 12-18 inches apart to allow growth. If using seeds, sow them ¼ inch deep and keep the soil moist until germination.

4. Sunlight and Watering: Place the plant box in a sunny spot (6-8 hours of sunlight daily). Water sparingly—sage thrives in drier conditions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

5. Maintenance: Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and harvest leaves as needed. Protect from extreme cold by moving the box indoors or covering it in winter.

With minimal effort, your mini sage garden will flourish, providing fresh herbs for cooking and a lovely green accent to your outdoor space. Happy gardening!