Grow Borage Herb from fresh Borago Officinalis herb seeds. Borage is an attractive herb that is often grown for its deep blue, star shaped blooms. It reaches a mature height of about 12 to 24 inches tall. Borage is not only sought after for its beauty, but also its cucumber flavored leaves and attractive flowers. Both of which are often used in salads, to add flavor and color. Grown as an annual herb, Borage will grow quickly, bloom profusely and then die soon after with the first frost. Plants can return the following year if seeds drop to the earth under it, or if they are collected for resowing.
Borage herb plants will attract an array of bumblebees and are also great to grow near vegetable gardens. It is recommended to harvest the leaves of Borage herb early as they will be much more flavorful. Matured leaves begin to get tough and hairy. The flowers of Borage however can be harvested at any time. Try cutting the plants to use in a decorative vase as well!
Quick Facts
- Type: Herb
- Season: Annual
- Heirloom: Yes
- Color: Blue
- Height: 12″ – 24″ Tall
- Width: 12″ to 18″ Spread
- Harvest: 50 to 60 Days
- Uses: Culinary / Medicinal / Ornamental
- Environment: Full Sun
Sowing The Seed
Borage seeds are best established directly outdoors, when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Prepare the sowing area by removing all unwanted plant life and weeds. Scatter your seeds to the surface of the soil, pressing each seed into the earth about 1/8” under topsoil. It is crucial that the seeds receive direct sunlight to properly germinate.
Growing Conditions
Borage herbs will enjoy an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day, with temperatures of at least 70F. The soil should be rich in organic matter, but also well drained. To improve drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to any areas that consist of hard, compact soil. Water the seeds daily with a mist setting or other light water setting to avoid overwatering and/or disturbing the seeds.
Germination & Growth
Your Borage will begin to show life within as little as 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of about 12 to 24 inches tall and can take up a fair amount of space. Space each plant roughly 12 inches apart from one another. Harvest young leaves for their cucumber flavor, adding them to salads through the summer months. The flowers can also be used as a garnish and are also popularly used in floral arrangements and bouquets as well. Attracts butterflies.