Moisture range
25–50%
Days to maturity
50–70
Light
Full sun
Growing Degree Units
600 · base 50°F
When to plant borage in your zone
Indoor-start, transplant and harvest dates calibrated to your climate.
Growing notes
Borage is easily grown from seed and will readily reseed itself. Although it is difficult to transplant, you can stretch out the harvest by sowing three times at 4-week intervals.
Harvest signs
Pick blossoms as they open. Use leaves fresh anytime; they are seldom dried.
Companions & antagonists
Plant near:TomatoSquash
Tip: Attracts pollinators strongly. Self-seeds freely.
Common questions
How much water does borage need?
Borage has middle-of-the-road water needs. Aim to keep soil moisture around 25–50%, letting the top inch dry slightly between waterings rather than staying soggy.
Can I grow borage in a raised bed or container?
Yes — borage does well in raised beds and is happy in a decent-sized container too, as long as drainage is good.
Does borage come back every year?
No — borage is an annual. It completes its life in one season, so you replant it each year.