Wildflower Seeds Borage Summer Skies - Unwins - 30210034

Our borage includes white flowers to accompany the more usual, intense blue form. The flowers are ...

Best current price£3.99from The Range

All Offers

3 offers from £3.99 - £4.29

View price history by clicking the chart icon.

The RangeUnwins Wildflower Seeds - Borage Summer Skies - Green
Free delivery in 1–3 days
£3.99
Visit shop
B&QB&Q - Flower SeedsBorage Summer Skies
Free delivery in 1–3 days
£4.29
Visit shop
OnBuy.comUnwins Borage Summer Skies
Free delivery in 1–3 days
£4.29
Visit shop

Product Information

Full details

This guide is for gardeners looking to add beautiful, edible, and pollinator-friendly plants to informal or wild gardens. The Unwins Borage Summer Skies seeds offer a unique blend of intense blue and white flowers, providing a traditional garnish for summer drinks and edible leaves with a mild cucumber flavor. A key caveat is that while versatile, it thrives best in well-drained soil and full sun.

All features

Model Part Number30210034
BrandUnwins

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Are both the blue and white flowers edible?

Yes, both the intense blue and the white borage flowers are edible and can be used as garnishes.

What is the flavor of borage leaves and flowers?

The young leaves and flowers have a mild, refreshing cucumber-like flavor.

How tall does Borage Summer Skies grow?

Borage plants typically grow to a height of about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm), sometimes reaching up to 4 feet (120 cm) under ideal conditions.

Can I grow borage in pots?

Yes, borage can be grown successfully in pots, provided the container is large enough (at least 12 inches/30 cm in diameter) and has good drainage.

When is the best time to sow borage seeds?

The best time to sow borage seeds is directly outdoors from April to June, after the risk of frost has passed, or indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.

Does borage need a lot of water?

Borage needs regular watering when young. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Will borage self-seed?

Yes, borage is known to self-seed readily. If you wish to prevent it from spreading too much, you can deadhead the spent flowers before they go to seed.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure seeds are fresh and sown at the correct depth (about 1/2 inch or 1.5 cm). Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Borage seeds need light to germinate, so do not bury them too deeply.

Plants become leggy or weak

Ensure the plants are receiving adequate sunlight. If planted too closely, thin them out to the recommended spacing. Provide support if the plants are falling over.

Pest infestation (e.g., slugs, aphids)

Protect young seedlings from slugs and snails. For aphids, a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap can be effective. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.

Poor flowering

Confirm the plant is in a sunny location and has well-drained soil. Lack of nutrients can sometimes affect flowering; a light feed with a balanced fertilizer might help, but avoid excessive nitrogen.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Adds unique aesthetic appeal with both blue and white flowers.
  • Provides edible components for culinary use, enhancing salads and drinks.
  • Beneficial for attracting essential pollinators like bees and butterflies.
  • Easy cultivation makes it suitable for beginner gardeners.
  • Offers a long flowering period throughout the summer months.
  • Contributes to a naturalistic and informal garden design.

Cons

  • Can self-seed readily, potentially becoming widespread if not managed.
  • Prefers well-drained soil and may struggle in waterlogged conditions.
  • Young plants may require protection from slugs and snails.
  • While edible, the flavor is mild and may not be to everyone's preference.
  • Can grow quite large, requiring adequate space in smaller gardens.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in a sunny position after the last frost, typically from April to June. Borage prefers a light, sandy soil. You can also start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them after hardening off.

Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart to allow for their mature size.

Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, especially when the plants are young. Once established, borage is relatively drought-tolerant.

Sunlight: Requires full sun for best growth and flowering.

Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged clay soils.

Care: Deadheading is not usually necessary, but removing spent flowers can prevent excessive self-seeding if desired. The plants can grow tall and may benefit from staking in windy locations, though this is often not required.

Compatibility: Thrives alongside most common garden plants, particularly in mixed borders, herb gardens, or vegetable patches. It complements plants that also attract pollinators.

Similar items

Price History

DatePrice
Visit shop