What is the flower language of borage? Detailed guide to planting methods and precautions
In home gardens, the one that most flower lovers enjoy planting is "borage," because after it blooms it is deep blue or light purple, and it also carries a delicate fragrance. In its blooming season, the scenery looks beautiful, as if you were standing in an oil painting.
Borage is native to the Mediterranean coast and is a gem among annual herbaceous plants in the Boraginaceae family. Its flower language is wit, intelligence and courage, symbolizing a quick-witted and brave person, and it can be given to friends who are preparing for exams or doing business. In addition, besides being ornamental, its flowers and leaves can also be made into seasoning to add a hint of cucumber fragrance to dishes. Even more remarkable, its seeds can also be used as medicine, and after being refined into essential oil, they are said to have potential effects such as preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases and fighting cancer.
If you also want to get started growing it, propagation seeds can be purchased in flower markets, and March to May is usually the best sowing time. Choose loose, fertile loam (you can mix in some organic fertilizer to improve the soil structure). About 3 weeks after sowing, seedlings can be seen emerging, and at this point they can be pricked out. In daily care, keep the soil moist as the standard, but do not let it become overly waterlogged.
After it grows, the soil condition should still mainly follow the principle of being moist, but it must not be overwatered, as this can easily cause root rot, so make sure drainage is good. In hot summer, the watering frequency may need to be increased, while in cooler seasons it should be appropriately reduced. As for fertilizing, during the growing period from May to October, it is recommended to apply liquid fertilizer once a week, which can promote healthy growth and abundant flowers.
Borage by nature likes a warm and sunny environment. The suitable growth temperature range is about 15 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the lighting needs to ensure it receives at least 6 hours of exposure every day. However, note that in winter it is not cold-tolerant and needs an additional windproof and coldproof cover to protect it from frost damage.
Besides daily watering and fertilizing, the plant should also be regularly pruned of dead branches and pest- or disease-affected branches. Doing so can stimulate new growth points, while also preventing the spread of disease and keeping the plant healthy.