How to Grow Borage

Updated June 2026

A cool-season flower for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Borage is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Borage is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the borage page for exact timing.

Varieties

Borage, Edible blue star flowers (Botanical Interests)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 16 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 0.5 in deep.
Water: roughly 0.8 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

In humid regions, Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Borage is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant borage where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →