Borage
Borago officinalis. Easy to grow annual with clear blue edible flowers. Leaves and flowers both have a crisp cucumber flavour. The oval leaves are hairy and rough with the lower foliage pushing 6 inches in length. The borage plant may grow 12 or more inches wide in a tall bushy habit. One of the best herbs for attracting bees. Approx. 200 seeds/pkg.
Details
Growing Information
Planting:
Direct sow in April and May. Borage develops a delicate taproot, so it’s best direct sown where it is to grow. Borage does not transplant well. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21°C (70°F). Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep, and thin to 60cm (24″) apart. Borage will get large and fill in spaces between plants. Seeds should sprout in 5-15 days.
Growing:
Borage is an un-fussy self sowing annual. To avoid self-sowing, the flower heads need to be picked regularly. Borage does best in full sun in well drained soil.
Harvesting:
Pick fresh flowers for freezing or drying for bouquets. Cut the fresh leaves during the summer to add to salads or spreads.
Companion Planting:
Borage is an excellent all-around companion plant. Borage deters hornworm and cabbage worms and is particularly useful planted near tomatoes and strawberries. Very attractive to pollinators and excellent for the soil and compost. Borage is deer-proof.