How to Grow Tarragon

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

Tarragon is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions tarragon can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the tarragon page for exact timing.

Varieties

• French Tarragon, True tarragon, needs cool shade (garden centers)
• Mexican Tarragon, Heat-tolerant Tagetes substitute (garden centers)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 40 cm (16 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 3 L per plant every 3 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 25cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Root rot and Downy mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Tarragon is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant tarragon where you garden.

See also: Tarragon in the plant library →

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