How to grow Borage in the UK
Borago officinalis
Borage (Borago officinalis) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Bee magnet — refills with nectar every 2 minutes. Flowers are stunning in Pimm's. Self-seeds aggressively. This guide covers when and how to sow Borage, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Borage
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May Sow | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Light, free-draining soil; many herbs resent winter wet
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- 30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow direct Apr–Jun; self-seeds prolifically
- Growing
- Tough and drought-tolerant; a magnet for bees
- Harvest & upkeep
- Edible blue flowers and cucumber-flavoured leaves; chop spent plants as mulch
- Watch for
- Mildew late in the season
Companion planting for Borage
Grows well with:
A bee magnet that improves fruit set on tomatoes, strawberries and squash; chop spent plants as a mineral-rich mulch.
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Borage FAQs
When should I sow Borage in the UK?
In the UK, sow Borage in March, May. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Borage?
Borage grows well alongside Chilli, Courgette, Cucumber, Sweet Pepper, Pumpkin, Butternut Squash. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Borage need?
Borage prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Borage ready to harvest?
Borage is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September in the UK.
Is Borage easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Bee magnet — refills with nectar every 2 minutes. Flowers are stunning in Pimm's. Self-seeds aggressively.