When to Plant Borage in Barrow County, GA
Borage is a self-seeding annual herb with star-shaped blue flowers that attract pollinators. Its leaves have a cucumber-like flavor and the flowers are edible.
Barrow County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 235 days.
At an elevation of 438 feet, Barrow County receives approximately 60.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Borage during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Borage, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Borage root diseases.
Barrow County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Barrow County
How your county's soil matches Borage's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.3–6.7) overlaps with Borage's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Barrow County is excellent for Borage — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Borage.
How to Plant Borage
Fall planting: Sow 10 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Borage
Sow every 5.7 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 14 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Sep 04.
Plant Water Budget
Borage Planting Timeline — Barrow County, GA
Borage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 16 | Feb 16 – Mar 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Direct Sow | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 30 |
| Fall Sowing | September 4 | Sep 4 – Sep 18 |
| Harvest | May 11 | May 11 – Jun 29 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.5"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
50–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
📆 Growing Season
235 days in Barrow County
Growing Tips for Borage in Barrow County
Direct sow Borage outdoors after March 23 in Barrow County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Barrow County's clay soil (33% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Borage. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
With 60" of annual rainfall in Barrow County, ensure good drainage for Borage — excess moisture can promote root rot and fungal diseases.
General growing tips
Direct sow in spring as borage does not transplant well. Allow some plants to go to seed for next year. Young leaves are best; older leaves become bristly.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Borage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Borage in Barrow County, GA?
Barrow County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 23. Plan your Borage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Barrow County, GA?
Barrow County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 23 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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