How to Grow and Care for Tarragon Plants: A Complete Guide

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a fragrant, perennial herb prized for its unique flavour and versatility in the kitchen. Known for its slightly anise-like taste, tarragon is a staple in French cuisine and is often used to flavour sauces, salads, and marinades.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for tarragon plants, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and culinary uses.

Understanding the Tarragon Plant

Tarragon is a hardy herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It grows upright, reaching heights of 60–90 cm, and features slender, lance-shaped leaves with a glossy green appearance. Tarragon also produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers, although the flowers are not typically a focus for gardeners.

There are two main types of tarragon commonly grown:

  • French Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa): Renowned for its superior flavour, this variety is sterile and propagated through cuttings or division.
  • Russian Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculoides): More vigorous and hardy but with a less refined flavour, often used for ornamental purposes.

How to Plant Tarragon

Tarragon is easy to grow in gardens, containers, or windowsills with the right care.

When and Where to Plant Tarragon

  • Timing: Plant tarragon in spring after the last frost. French tarragon is typically grown from cuttings or transplants, while Russian tarragon can be grown from seeds.
  • Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Tarragon tolerates light shade but thrives in full sun.
  • Soil: Use fertile, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5). Amend heavy soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.

Steps for Planting Tarragon

  1. Prepare the Soil: Enrich the soil with organic matter or compost to boost fertility.
  2. Plant Cuttings or Transplants: Space tarragon plants 45–60 cm apart to allow room for growth and airflow.
  3. Water Sparingly: Water the plants thoroughly after planting, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Propagating Tarragon

Tarragon can be propagated through cuttings, division, or seeds (for Russian tarragon).

  • Cuttings: Take 10–15 cm cuttings from a mature plant in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and plant in moist soil or water until roots form.
  • Division: Divide mature plants every 3–4 years in spring to rejuvenate growth and create new plants.
  • Seeds: Russian tarragon can be grown from seeds, although its flavour is less desirable.

Caring for Tarragon Plants

Tarragon is a low-maintenance herb that thrives in warm, sunny conditions.

Light, Soil, and Water Requirements

  • Light: Provide full sun for optimal growth. Tarragon can tolerate partial shade but may grow less vigorously.
  • Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and not overly rich, as overly fertile soils can dilute the flavour of the leaves.
  • Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Tarragon is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.

Fertiliser Needs

Feed tarragon sparingly. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilising can lead to leggy growth and reduced flavour.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning keeps tarragon healthy and encourages fresh growth.

  • When to Prune: Prune in early spring to remove dead growth and again after flowering to maintain shape.
  • How to Prune: Use sharp scissors to cut stems back by one-third, focusing on removing woody or leggy growth.

Common Pests and Diseases

Tarragon is relatively pest- and disease-resistant but may encounter occasional issues.

  • Aphids: Wash them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
  • Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal infections.
  • Root Rot: Prevent this by ensuring well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.

Harvesting Tarragon

Tarragon can be harvested throughout the growing season.

  • When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plant is established, typically 6–8 weeks after planting. For the best flavour, pick leaves before the plant flowers.
  • How to Harvest: Use scissors to snip individual leaves or cut stems, leaving enough foliage for the plant to continue growing.
  • Storage: Fresh tarragon can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel. For long-term storage, dry or freeze the leaves.

Cooking and Culinary Uses for Tarragon

Tarragon is a staple in French cooking and pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

  • Seasoning: Use tarragon leaves to flavour chicken, fish, eggs, and vegetables.
  • Sauces: Tarragon is a key ingredient in classic French sauces like Béarnaise and tarragon butter.
  • Infusions: Add fresh tarragon to vinegars, oils, or teas for a fragrant infusion.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle fresh tarragon over salads or roasted dishes for a burst of flavour.

Tarragon’s delicate anise-like taste complements ingredients like lemon, mustard, and cream, making it a versatile addition to savoury dishes.

The Joy of Growing Tarragon

Tarragon is a rewarding herb that enhances both your garden and your cooking. Its low-maintenance nature, robust growth, and culinary versatility make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.

Start growing tarragon today and enjoy its fresh, aromatic flavour in your favourite recipes. Whether you plant it in a garden bed, pot, or windowsill, tarragon will bring beauty, aroma, and taste to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

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