Growing French tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
      T                
      P P              

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

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • Plant cuttings or root division. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 16 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 6-8 weeks. Pick leaves when young for best flavour.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): 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. Can be used in cream sauces, herbed butters and vinegars, soups, sour creams, and yogurt. However, it can be overpowering in large amounts.

Your comments and tips

20 Apr 24, (USA - Zone 8b climate)
I was able to by tarragon plants from the Monticello Shop. Monticelloshop.org
15 Sep 23, Donna Daniels (USA - Zone 5a climate)
I got a cutting in June. It's in my raised bed garden. The nights are cooli ng down. Should I put it in a pot and put it in the cellar? Do I stop watering it for a few months? Thank you.
12 Feb 21, Sonja (USA - Zone 10b climate)
Any idea who sells it in CA? Can’t find anything but Russian Tarragon! Thank you
11 Oct 21, MaryP (USA - Zone 6a climate)
I bought mine from Territorial Seeds. They send rooted cuttings in pots.
16 Feb 21, (USA - Zone 4a climate)
Try seed selling companies on the net.
10 Sep 17, Jan (USA - Zone 9a climate)
I AM TRYING TO FIND A SHOP THAT SELLS FRENCH TARRAGON PLANTS (OR SHOOTS). Can you Help? Thank you very much!!
05 Jan 19, Petra (USA - Zone 9a climate)
Depending on which state and location you are at. If you are in Florida than Maggies herb in St. Augustine usually carries it.

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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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