Planting Guide and Seed Saving Notes for Borage

Borage (Borago officinalis)

Borage, also known as starflower, bee bush, bee bread, and bugloss, is a medicinal herb with edible leaves and flowers. Pollinators love these ornamental beauties.

Nutrients: gamma-linolenic acid, B vitamins, beta-carotene, fiber, choline, and, trace minerals

How to Grow Borage from Seed

Bed Preparation

Borage is an annual that is tolerant of a wide variety of soils. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade.

Planting

Direct sow Borage seed outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Seed can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Optimal germination occurs when soil temps are 65-85°F. Sow seeds 1/4" deep and 10-12" apart. Seeds will sprout in 7-14 days. Thin seedlings so that mature plants are 18-24" apart.

Harvest

All above ground parts can be used. Harvest fresh flowers, stems, and leaves when plant is in flower and green seeds are starting to form. Borage can be dried for later use.

How to Save Borage Seeds

Borage is an annual that self-sows readily in the garden. Seeds mature in summer-fall. Collect seeds when flowers have dried and turned brown. Store seeds in a cool dry place. Seeds will remain viable for 3-5 years.