How to Grow Great Borage

In ancient times, it was believed that borage could give a person courage. Celtic warriors would drink wine flavored with the herb before battle. In modern times, it is still used in many recipes. It is an easy herb to grow in your garden and have a fresh supply at hand whenever you need it. Here are some tips to help you grow all the borage you will need.

The blue, star shaped flowers of the borage plant make it a lovely addition to any wildflower bed. It is also beautiful in your herb garden. It is an annual and can grow up to 2 feet tall. It will attract a lot of bees to your garden spot. It is easy to grow and will spread if you let it.

This herb loves rich soil. It should also be moist and light. Plant borage in full sun to help it grow well. You can easily grow it from seed. They should be planted as soon as the last frost is predicted in your area. It is probably that the herb will reseed after the initial planting. Once the seedlings sprout, they should be thinned to about 2 feet apart. You should use mulch around the plants to help keep the soil moist. There is no reason for concern if the flowers do not appear the first year after planting. There are times that borage will act similar to a biennial.

You can start harvesting borage when it has become established. Be sure to harvest the young, tender leaves in the morning, after the dew has dried. This will give you the freshest taste. It is not recommended that you dry this herb. It loses most of its flavor and color when it is dried.

Borage has a taste similar to a cucumber. The leaves can be prepared in several different ways. They can be eaten raw in a salad, or steamed, sauteed, just like spinach. The flowers and leaves can be eaten and will brighten up a green salad. Use the stems like celery in recipes. Use the leaves and stems to liven up dishes such as most vegetables, salad dressings, cheese, poultry, green salads, pickles, fish, and iced beverages. Borage blends well with dill, mint, and also garlic. The leaves are a bit fuzzy. So, if the texture bothers you, take them out after cooking. Just use them for the flavor.

Having a fresh supply of herbs outside your back door is a wonderful way to cook. There is nothing like going out to your garden and harvesting the ingredients you need to cook your meal. Hopefully, these tips will help you grow all the borage you need for you delicious home cooked recipes.

SOURCE

Editors of Rodale Organic Gardening Magazine and Books. "Rodale Organic Gardening Basics: Herbs Volume 5". 2001. Pennsylvania, USA.