Borage should be ready to harvest this month. Check for size and colour.
Growing Calendar
This month: Sep
Log to journalReady to harvest now
- •Check size and ripeness
- •Harvest regularly
- •Store or use fresh
Watch Out For
Borage grows large quickly (up to 90cm tall and wide): give it room or it will crowd out smaller companion plants nearby
Prolific self-seeding can become a nuisance: deadhead spent flowers if you do not want it spreading across the bed
Aphids cluster on new growth tips in summer: these usually attract ladybirds within days; leave them unless the infestation is severe
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems: no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Borage in the UK
When do I sow borage in the UK?
Sow borage directly outside from April to June. It germinates quickly in warm soil (within 1–2 weeks) and dislikes transplanting. Once established, it self-seeds freely and will appear in the garden year after year without resowing.
Are borage flowers edible?
Yes, the vivid blue star-shaped flowers are fully edible with a subtle cucumber flavour. They are excellent in salads, frozen in ice cubes, as cake decorations, or floated in summer drinks. Leaves are also edible but hairy: chop finely or use in cooked dishes.
Does borage attract bees?
Yes, borage is one of the most valuable pollinator plants available. A single plant in flower produces hundreds of nectar-rich blooms over several months. Planting borage near cucumbers, courgettes, strawberries, and squash significantly improves pollination and yield.
Does borage spread?
Borage self-seeds prolifically: once established in a garden, it will return every year from self-sown seeds. It is not aggressive but will pop up in unexpected places. Simply remove plants where they are not wanted; transplant when very young as they dislike root disturbance.
Written from real growing experience, not just research. Read the story behind Pelham Gardens.
Member guides
There's more to growing Borage than this guide covers.
A Garden Journal to log what worked, a personalised sowing planner in My Garden, and monthly reminders timed to the calendar.
