What to know
Indian Borago officinalis ( Plectranthus amboinicus ) , also know as country Borago officinalis orCuban oregano , is a various herbaceous plant renowned for its culinary and medicative properties . Its aromatic leaf lend aunique flavorto smasher , while its medicative uses have been document for centuries . If you ’re await to cultivate this beneficial plant , follow our comprehensive guide on how to plant Indian borage .
Soil Preparation
Amerind borage thrives in well - drained , fecund soilwith a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 . Amend the dirt withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure to better its construction and alimentary capacity . Dig the soil to a depth of 12 - 18 inches and fuse in the organic topic thoroughly .
Planting
cum : Sow seeds indoors6 - 8 week before the last frost . satiate ejaculate tray with seminal fluid starting mix and seed the seed 1/4inch inscrutable . Keep the dirt moist andprovide plentyof sunshine . Transplant the seedling outdoors after the last frost , space them 12 - 18 inches asunder . Cuttings : Take cuttings from matured plants in spring or summer . Cut 4 - 6inch stem cuttingsand bump off the leaves from the bottom column inch . Dip the carving inrooting hormoneand plant them in a well - drain potting mix . Keep thecuttings moistand provide collateral sunlight . They will settle in 2 - 3 weeks .
Light and Temperature
Indian tailwort prefersfull sunto fond shade . It can tolerate some shade , but it will produce more leaves and flowers in full Dominicus . The ideal temperature range for growth is between 65 - 85 ° F ( 18 - 29 ° C ) . Protect the plant from frost and utmost heat energy .
Watering
water supply Indian borage regularly , especially during hot , ironic weather . Allow thetop inchof soil to dry out before lachrymation again . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to antecedent rot .
Fertilizing
Pruning
Prune Amerind borage regularly to further shaggy-haired growth and prevent it from becoming leggy . hook back the tips of the fore to promote branch . you’re able to also prune theplant backby one - third to two - third after flowering to encourage new growth .
Harvesting
reap the leaves ofIndian borageas necessitate . you may harvest the leaf at any time , but the flavor is strongest just before flowering . To reap , simply pluckthe leaves from the stems .
Medicinal Uses
Indian tailwort has awide rangeof medicinal enjoyment , including :
Caution : While Indian tailwort isgenerally regard secure , it should be used in moderation bypregnant womenand people with kidney or liver problems .
Culinary Uses
The leaves ofIndian boragehave a unequaled flavor that is both minty andslightly spicy . They can be used impertinent or dry toadd flavorto a variety of dishes , including :
Companion Planting
Indian borage is a well fellow traveler plant for tomatoes , peppers , and eggplants . It can helpdeter pestsand pull beneficial insect .
Troubleshooting
pesterer : Indian borageis relatively pest - free , but it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies . delicacy infestations with insecticidal grievous bodily harm or neem oil . disease : Indian boragecan be susceptible to powdery mildew androot rot . stave off overwatering and ensure good atmosphere circulation to prevent these diseases . FAQQ : Can Igrow Native American boragein containers?A : Yes , Amerindic boragecan be grown in container . select a mass that is at least 12 inch in diameter and has drainage hole . Q : How often should I irrigate Amerind borage?A : Water Indian Borago officinalis on a regular basis , especially during hot , dry weather . Allow thetop inchof soil to dry out before watering again . Q : How long does it take forIndian borageto mature?A : Indian boragewillreach maturityin about 90 - 120 days .
