Growing Hints for Borage

Borage is an easy to grow annual herb with a cucumber-like flavor. The leaves, stems and flowers are all edible. The small, young leaves are the best to use, but all leaves are fuzzy in texture and this makes it unappealing to some. The leaves can be used to season soups and stocks, and then removed like bay leaves. The stems may be peeled and used like celery. The plant flowers all summer long, which makes the plant attractive to people and beneficial insects alike. Borage usually has blue flowers, but a white flowered variety is also available.

Borage is easy to grow right out in the garden, just plant the seeds after danger of frost has passed. The plant is not finicky, but likes rich moist soil the best. Mulch is helpful. The abundant flowers produce many seeds, and new plants will usually appear in the same spot the following year. Be warned: the vigorous plants may come up so thickly that you will start to think of it as a weed.

For more crops, more complete gardening information, a garden journal and a planting schedule you can customize for your region, purchase The Seed Program!