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Can You Grow Borage in Ohio?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

Borage grows easily anywhere in your zone — direct sow and let it self-seed for years of free plants.

Plant zones

2a–11b

Ohio last frost

early April

Ohio first frost

late October

Days to harvest

50–60 days

When to plant Borages in Ohio

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

May 27 – Jun 6

Dates are approximate, based on Ohio's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Borage

Borage is an effortless annual with striking blue star-shaped flowers. The cucumber-flavored leaves and flowers are edible, and it is a powerful pollinator magnet that self-seeds freely year after year.

Direct sow after last frost — hates transplanting. Self-seeds so aggressively you plant it once and it returns every year. Great companion plant for tomatoes and strawberries. Harvest flowers daily to encourage more blooms.

Full borage growing guide →

Gardening in Ohio

Ohio has a humid continental climate. Northern Ohio near Lake Erie is Zone 6a; inland areas are Zone 5b. Four seasons with a productive 6-month growing window.

See what grows well in Ohio →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Borage in Ohio?

Borage grows easily anywhere in your zone — direct sow and let it self-seed for years of free plants.

What zone is Ohio?

Ohio spans USDA Zone 5b (5a, 5b, 6a).

When do you plant Borages in Ohio?

Plant Borages Apr 7, harvest May 27 – Jun 6.