Where can I ppost a specific question about gardening.  I want some advice on getting lavender plants started.  I noticed that such matters should not be in the forum. Am I missing something?

Hello aschmidt1,

Your post has been moved to the flower section, as readers will have noticed. Here other members can assist you with your lavender plants.

Thanks!

Wes

My russian sage plants are not very full. I have cut them back every fall. Should I do it in another season or not at all? Should I feed them something special?

I don't know what zone you are in but here in zone 4 the recommendation is to cut it back in the spring when new growth begins. Russian Sage is at it's best in full sun in lean, well-drained soil. Rich soil or to much fertilizer and or water results in floppy plants.

Russian sage
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Is drought tolerant, grows in zones 5-9, performs best in zones 6-8
2-5' tall and 2-3' wide
propagate through cuttings

Prune back to about 6" in the spring, before new growth starts,since the best flowering occurs on new growth. In warmer regions, deadheading may result in a second flush of bloom. Otherwise, leave the flowerheads for winter interest.

Information that I've read states that it grows well in poor rocky soil. I've observed-in poor soil it has a slower growth. It will take at least a few years to fill out, the stems become woody,with a woody crown. Will grow in partial shade but will become leggy and will need staking.

interesting readings on Folk medicine relation in regards of this plant
http://www.pakbs.org/pjbot/PDFs/42(...3)1465.pdf

Joyce has the info correct. With all shrub type plants, you need to wait to prune in the spring. With winter coming, if you prune now, you run the risk of compounding freeze damage by shortening the stems. Normally freeze damage affects the ends of the stems. By shortening the stem, you would run the risk of exposing the base of the plants with freeze damage.

Shady, for a new gardener all that info can be intimidating. We are here to help, not to frighten.