Common problems with borage can vary depending on the specific growing conditions and region, but here are a few issues that gardeners may encounter:
1. Powdery mildew: Borage is susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This can weaken the plant and reduce its overall health. To prevent powdery mildew, provide good air circulation by spacing the plants properly and avoiding overcrowding. Water at the base of the plant and not over the foliage, as wet leaves can promote the spread of the disease. If powdery mildew does appear, you can try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil or a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew control.
2. Aphids: Borage can attract aphids, small sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to the plant. These pests can be controlled by spraying the affected plant parts with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or a homemade solution of water and dish soap to kill the aphids. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids, so attracting these beneficial insects to your garden can help keep the aphid population in check.
3. Caterpillars: While borage is known to repel certain caterpillars like imported cabbageworm and tomato hornworm, it may still attract other species of caterpillars that can feed on the leaves. Handpicking the caterpillars and dropping them into a bucket of soapy water is one organic method of control. If the infestation is severe, you may consider using a biological control method such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars.
4. Self-seeding: Borage has a tendency to self-seed, which can be a problem if you don’t want it to spread too aggressively. The plants can scatter their seeds around the garden, and the next year you may find borage popping up in unexpected places. To prevent excessive self-seeding, you can deadhead the flowers before they go to seed. Alternatively, you can designate a specific area in your garden for borage and contain it by removing any seedlings that appear outside of that designated area.
5. Soil Issues: Borage prefers well-draining soil and can be sensitive to waterlogged conditions. If the soil is too heavy and retains too much moisture, it can lead to root rot and other diseases. To improve drainage, you can amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Additionally, borage prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of around 6.0-7.0. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you may need to adjust the pH by adding lime or sulfur accordingly.
By being aware of these common problems and taking appropriate measures to address them, you can enjoy the benefits of borage in your garden while minimizing any potential issues.
