Borage in Zone 3a & 3b
Borago officinalis
When to plant borage in zone 3b
Zones 3a and 3b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.
Method: Direct sow: Direct-sow outside. Borage doesn't transplant well, or doesn't need the extra time indoors.
| Start indoors | Not typically started indoors |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | May 30–Jun 6 |
| Estimated harvest | Jul 24–Jul 31 (~55 days after direct-sowing) |
Spacing: 1 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 1.5-3 ft.
Borage is a fuzzy-leaved annual herb best known for its star-shaped blue flowers and mild, cucumber-like flavor. Both the young leaves and flowers are edible, and few plants pull in bees as reliably.
How borage fits zone 3's season
Zone 3b's frost-free window runs about 98 days, from May 30 to September 5. Borage needs about 55 days from sowing to first harvest.
Good companions
No standout companions recorded yet for Borage.
Where to buy borage seeds
See why we recommend these suppliers →
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See it growing
Search YouTube for "growing borage" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)
← Back to the full zone 3b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Borage in USDA zone 3b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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