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Growing French tarragon

(Artemisia dracunculus)

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
    S P P   P          

(Best months for planting French tarragon in USA - Zone 5a regions)

S = Plant undercover in seed trays. P = Plant direct in garden where they are to grow.


  • Plant cuttings or root division. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 40 - 60 cm apart
  • Harvest in 30-40 days. Pick leaves when young for best flavour.
  • Compatible with: Aubergine (Eggplant) and Capsicum (Peppers)
  • New Spring growth

French tarragon a half hardy perennial herb that is native of southern Europe. It is frost tender - which may be one of the reasons that it is not particularly widely grown - French tarragon is easy to grow but rarely sets seeds. It is propagated by division, or from cuttings.
Seed grown tarragon is usually Russian tarragon which does not have such a good flavour.

French tarragon must have a sunny position The site should be sheltered from winds and winter frosts. Keep well watered in dry weather. In autumn, mulch plants with a thick layer of straw or similar, to protect it over the winter. Tarragon prefers well-drained soil which is not too high in nutrients. It will do equally well in full sun or partial shade. 

Culinary hints - cooking and eating French tarragon

Tarragon goes well with fish, pork, beef, poultry, game, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, and most vegetables.  Tarragon can be used in cream sauces, herbed butters and vinegars, soups, sour creams, and yogurt.
However, it can be overpowering in large amounts.


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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.

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