Detailed Plant Info about Borage White
General Info
Dynamic Accumulator
7 - 14
50 - 60
May-August
6.0-7.0
gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), stearidonic acid (SDA), linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid
Salads, soups, stews, omelettes, beverages, desserts, cocktails
flowers, leaves, stems
Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Cabbage loopers: Green caterpillars that eat large holes in leaves.
Cutworms: Soil-dwelling caterpillars that cut off seedlings at the base.
Flea beetles: Small, jumping beetles that create small holes in leaves.
Leaf miners: Tiny ...
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Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Cabbage loopers: Green caterpillars that eat large holes in leaves.
Cutworms: Soil-dwelling caterpillars that cut off seedlings at the base.
Flea beetles: Small, jumping beetles that create small holes in leaves.
Leaf miners: Tiny larvae that tunnel through leaves, creating white or yellow lines or blotches.
Slugs and snails: Soft-bodied pests that feed on leaves, leaving behind slime trails.
Spider mites: Microscopic pests that spin webs on leaves and suck out plant juices.
Thrips: Tiny, slender insects that feed on plant cells, causing distorted growth and silvering of leaves.
Whiteflies: Small, white insects that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting.
Wireworms: Hard-shelled larvae of click beetles that damage roots and underground stems.
Borage is known to deter aphids, cabbage moths, tomato hornworms, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles. Borage is known to deter aphids, cabbage moths, tomato hornworms, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles.
Warning: This plant is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses Warning: This plant is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Ladybugs, lacewings, bees Ladybugs, lacewings, bees
Nutrition
The borage plant can yield approximately 8 ounces of oil per acre of cultivation. The oil, which is extracted from the seeds, is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid. The plant also produces abundant nectar, making it a popular choice for beekeepers. ...
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The borage plant can yield approximately 8 ounces of oil per acre of cultivation. The oil, which is extracted from the seeds, is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid. The plant also produces abundant nectar, making it a popular choice for beekeepers. Additionally, the leaves can be used for culinary purposes, adding a cucumber-like flavor to salads and other dishes. However, it's important to note that the plant can also accumulate pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic in high doses, so moderation is advised.
1. Harvest borage leaves regularly throughout the growing season for continuous production.
2. Cut or pluck individual leaves as needed, leaving the stem intact.
3. Harvest star-shaped blue flowers when they are fully open for culinary use.
4. Cut stems back by about one-third to encourage new growth ...
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1. Harvest borage leaves regularly throughout the growing season for continuous production.
2. Cut or pluck individual leaves as needed, leaving the stem intact.
3. Harvest star-shaped blue flowers when they are fully open for culinary use.
4. Cut stems back by about one-third to encourage new growth and flowering.
5. Borage is a prolific self-seeder, so allow some flowers to go to seed for future plants.
6. Avoid harvesting borage leaves that are yellowing or wilted.
7. Wash harvested leaves and flowers thoroughly before use.
8. Borage leaves can be eaten fresh, added to salads, or used as a garnish.
9. Borage flowers have a delicate cucumber flavor and can be used in salads, desserts, and drinks.
10. Freshly harvested borage should be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reduce inflammation: Borage oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid that has been shown to reduce inflammation. This may be helpful for people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and Crohn's disease.
Improve skin health: Borage oil can help ...
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Reduce inflammation: Borage oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid that has been shown to reduce inflammation. This may be helpful for people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and Crohn's disease.
Improve skin health: Borage oil can help to improve skin health in several ways. It can help to reduce inflammation, which can lead to a decrease in acne and other skin conditions. It can also help to moisturize the skin and improve its elasticity.
Reduce PMS symptoms: Borage oil may help to reduce the symptoms of PMS, such as bloating, cramps, and mood swings. This is because GLA can help to reduce inflammation and hormone imbalances.
Improve heart health: Borage oil may help to improve heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It can also help to prevent blood clots.
Boost the immune system: Borage oil contains antioxidants that can help to boost the immune system and protect the body from infection.
Reduce anxiety and depression: Borage oil may help to reduce anxiety and depression by increasing the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects
May reduce inflammation in the skin, joints, and throughout the body
Skin Health:
GLA helps maintain skin moisture and elasticity
May improve eczema, acne, and other skin conditions
Cardiovascular Health:
GLA may lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function
May ...
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Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects
May reduce inflammation in the skin, joints, and throughout the body
Skin Health:
GLA helps maintain skin moisture and elasticity
May improve eczema, acne, and other skin conditions
Cardiovascular Health:
GLA may lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function
May reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
Cognitive Function:
GLA may support brain function
May improve memory, concentration, and cognitive performance
Hormonal Balance:
Contains phytosterols, plant compounds that resemble cholesterol
May balance hormone levels, particularly in women
Other Benefits:
Menstrual cramps: GLA may reduce menstrual pain
Rheumatoid arthritis: GLA may relieve pain and stiffness
Multiple sclerosis: GLA may slow disease progression
Asthma: Borage oil may improve lung function in asthma patients
Hair and nail growth: GLA supports healthy hair and nail growth
Sowing
1/4 to 1/2
12
36 - 60
0
0
6-12
55-65°F (13-18°C)
n
Borage is native to the Mediterranean region and is now widely distributed in Europe, Asia, and North America. It prefers well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. The plant tolerates various soil types but prefers calcareous soils. Borage can grow in clay, loam, or ...
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Borage is native to the Mediterranean region and is now widely distributed in Europe, Asia, and North America. It prefers well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. The plant tolerates various soil types but prefers calcareous soils. Borage can grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils. It requires a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Borage is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions but prefers moist soil. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It can reach a height of 2-3 feet and has a spreading habit.
Borage is an annual herb that typically grows 1-3 feet tall. It has a sprawling growth habit, with its stems spreading out along the ground. The leaves are large and hairy, and the flowers are blue or purple. Borage prefers full sun to partial shade ...
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Borage is an annual herb that typically grows 1-3 feet tall. It has a sprawling growth habit, with its stems spreading out along the ground. The leaves are large and hairy, and the flowers are blue or purple. Borage prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Alfalfa Clover Corn Dill Fennel Garlic Mint Parsley Sweet peas Tomatoes Alfalfa Clover Corn Dill Fennel Garlic Mint Parsley Sweet peas Tomatoes
Fungal Diseases:
Botrytis cinerea (Gray Mold): Causes soft rot, wilting, and gray mold growth on leaves, stems, and flowers.
Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum): Wilts plants and causes yellowing and stunting.
Rhizoctonia solani (Damping-off): Affects seedlings, causing damping-off and root rot.
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe): Causes a white, powdery growth on ...
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Fungal Diseases:
Botrytis cinerea (Gray Mold): Causes soft rot, wilting, and gray mold growth on leaves, stems, and flowers.
Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum): Wilts plants and causes yellowing and stunting.
Rhizoctonia solani (Damping-off): Affects seedlings, causing damping-off and root rot.
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe): Causes a white, powdery growth on leaves.
Downy mildew (Peronospora): Causes yellowing and spotting of leaves, with a white, mold-like growth on the undersides.
Bacterial Diseases:
Bacterial leaf spot (Pseudomonas): Causes small, brown spots on leaves.
Crown gall (Agrobacterium tumefaciens): Forms galls or swellings on stems and roots.
Viral Diseases:
Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV): Causes yellow mosaic patterns on leaves and stunting.
Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV): Causes mottled leaves and stunted growth.
Other Diseases:
Nematode infestation (root-knot nematodes): Causes root galls and reduced plant vigor.
Aphid infestations: Can spread viral diseases and damage plant tissues.
Borax deficiency: Results in poor growth, brittle leaves, and reduced seed production.
Salt stress: Can cause leaf burn, stunted growth, and reduced yield.
Borage (Borago officinalis) holds significant ecological importance:
- Attracts pollinators:*Its blue, star-shaped flowers attract a wide range of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, aiding in plant reproduction.
- Supports wildlife:*Borage seeds and nectar serve as a valuable food source for birds, insects, and small mammals.
- Enhances soil ...
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Borage (Borago officinalis) holds significant ecological importance:
- Attracts pollinators:*Its blue, star-shaped flowers attract a wide range of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, aiding in plant reproduction.
- Supports wildlife:*Borage seeds and nectar serve as a valuable food source for birds, insects, and small mammals.
- Enhances soil fertility:*Its deep roots draw nutrients from the subsoil and deposit them into the topsoil, enriching it.
- Suppresses weeds:*The plant releases allelopathic compounds that inhibit weed germination and growth, creating more space for desirable plants.
- Protects against erosion:*Its dense growth helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes and in disturbed areas.
- Promotes biodiversity:*As a host plant for various insects and birds, borage contributes to maintaining a diverse ecosystem.
- Medicinal properties:*The plant's leaves and flowers contain compounds with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects, making it valuable in traditional medicine.
- Culinary uses:*Borage flowers and leaves are edible, adding a mild cucumber flavor to salads, drinks, and desserts.
- Ornamental value:*Its attractive flowers and foliage make it a popular addition to gardens, attracting both wildlife and human admiration.
1. Sow seeds directly outdoors: In spring or fall, scatter seeds in well-drained soil.
2. Thin seedlings: When seedlings emerge, thin them to a spacing of 12-18 inches apart.
3. Transplant seedlings: If desired, you can also transplant seedlings into pots or a new location.
4. Provide adequate ...
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1. Sow seeds directly outdoors: In spring or fall, scatter seeds in well-drained soil.
2. Thin seedlings: When seedlings emerge, thin them to a spacing of 12-18 inches apart.
3. Transplant seedlings: If desired, you can also transplant seedlings into pots or a new location.
4. Provide adequate sun: Borage prefers full sun to partial shade.
5. Water regularly: Borage requires consistent watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
6. Deadhead flowers: Removing spent flowers encourages new blooms and prevents self-seeding.
7. Cut back foliage: In late fall or early spring, cut back the foliage to the base of the plant.
8. Propagate by division: Dig up established clumps and divide them into smaller sections.
9. Take softwood cuttings: In spring, take softwood cuttings from healthy stems.
10. Root cuttings in water or soil: Place cuttings in a glass of water or potting mix to encourage root formation.
Planting & Harvesting Dates
Post-Planting Care
After Planting:
* Water regularly: Water deeply and consistently, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
* Mulch: Spread a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
* ...
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After Planting:
* Water regularly: Water deeply and consistently, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
* Mulch: Spread a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
* Fertilize lightly: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
* Prune if necessary: Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching and flower production.
* Protect from pests: Inspect plants regularly for pests and treat promptly with organic or chemical controls.
During Harvesting:
* Harvest flowers: Cut the flowers from the stem when they are just opening. Remove the white petals and use the blue florets for tea, culinary purposes, or medicinal preparations.
* Harvest leaves: Harvest the leaves for culinary use when they are young and tender. Avoid harvesting too many leaves at once to prevent the plant from getting leggy.
After Harvesting:
* Continue watering: Water the plants regularly after harvesting to encourage new growth.
* Cut back: Cut back the plant stems by about half after the first harvest to promote a second blooming cycle.
* Fertilize: Fertilize the plants every few weeks to maintain healthy growth and encourage future flower production.
* Overwinter: In cold climates, protect the plants over winter by mulching heavily or providing a cold frame or greenhouse.
Disclaimer
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The plant health benefits discussed on this site are based on general knowledge and research. However, the effects of plants on individual health can vary, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
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