How to Grow Tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus
French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a beloved perennial herb prized for its unique anise-like flavor. Gardeners grow it to elevate culinary dishes, though it is often propagated from cuttings due to its difficulty in true seed production.
📷 Wikipedia: TarragonStarting Tarragon: indoors or direct sow?
🌾 Sow directly in the garden — Tarragon is not usually started indoors.
Tarragon is difficult to start from seed indoors; it is best propagated via cuttings or purchased as a small plant to transplant directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
Soil, care & harvest
Prepare well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Because tarragon is difficult to germinate from seed, start indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost date rather than sowing directly outside. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface without covering them deeply, as they require light for germination.
Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in full sun. Water sparingly once established, as this herb prefers low moisture conditions. Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid piling it against the stems to prevent rot.
This plant is generally pest-free, though aphids may occasionally appear; encourage beneficial insects or spray with water if needed. Harvest leaves once plants reach maturity, typically within 60 to 90 days of planting. Snip sprigs before flowering for the best flavor and continue cutting regularly throughout the growing season.
When to Plant Tarragon
Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.
