A Complete Guide to Growing Tarragon at Home

Healthy French tarragon plant with narrow green leaves growing in a sunlit garden bed Click or tap the image for more information.

Whether you're a beginner or experienced gardener, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing tarragon successfully – from choosing the right variety to harvesting and storing your bounty.

French vs. Russian Tarragon: Choosing the Right Variety

There are two main types of tarragon available to home gardeners, and understanding their differences is crucial for success:

French Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus 'Sativa')

French tarragon is the culinary star, prized by chefs worldwide for its distinctive anise-like flavor with hints of licorice. This variety grows to about 24-36 inches tall with slender, smooth leaves. French tarragon rarely flowers or produces seeds, meaning it must be propagated through cuttings or divisions.

The flavor is warm and aromatic, making it perfect for classic French dishes, béarnaise sauce, and flavored vinegars. While more challenging to grow, its superior taste makes it worth the effort.

Russian Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus 'Inodora')

Russian tarragon is more robust and easier to grow, reaching heights of up to 3 feet. It produces more abundant foliage but offers significantly less flavor than its French counterpart. Many gardeners find it has a grassy, slightly bitter taste that lacks the distinctive anise notes.

While it can be grown from seed (unlike French tarragon), its mild flavor makes it less desirable for culinary purposes. However, it's more cold-hardy and can be a good option for challenging growing conditions.

Side-by-side photograph comparing French tarragon on the left and Russian tarragon on the right, highlighting differences in leaf shape, size, and density. Click or tap the image for more information.

Choosing the Right Location for Growing Tarragon

Tarragon thrives in specific conditions. Creating the ideal environment will help ensure your plants grow vigorously and produce flavorful leaves.

Sunlight Requirements

French tarragon performs best in full sun to partial shade. In cooler climates, provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot regions (zones 8 and above), some afternoon shade can prevent stress during the hottest summer months.

Soil Type and Preparation

Tarragon requires well-drained soil with moderate fertility. The ideal soil characteristics include:

• Sandy or loamy texture that drains quickly
• Neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.5-7.5)
• Moderate organic matter content
• Good aeration for root development

Before planting, prepare your soil by incorporating 1-2 inches of compost to improve drainage and provide mild fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce the intensity of tarragon's flavor.

Drainage Considerations

Poor drainage is the primary cause of tarragon failure. The plant's roots are susceptible to rot in wet conditions. If your garden soil tends to stay damp, consider these solutions:

For Garden Beds:

• Create raised beds at least 8-12 inches high
• Mix in 25-30% coarse sand or fine gravel
• Install drainage tiles beneath heavy soils

For Container Growing:

• Use containers with multiple drainage holes
• Add a 1-inch layer of gravel at the bottom
• Use high-quality potting mix with added perlite

Raised wooden garden bed with healthy tarragon plants, dark soil, gravel drainage layer, and visible drainage pipe in daylight. Click or tap the image for more information.

Planting Methods for Tarragon

Since French tarragon rarely produces viable seeds, most gardeners use vegetative propagation methods. Here's how to start your tarragon plants using different techniques:

From Cuttings

Taking stem cuttings is the most reliable method for propagating French tarragon:

1. In early morning, cut 4-6 inch stems from a healthy tarragon plant
2. Remove leaves from the bottom third of each cutting
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but helpful)
4. Plant in a pot with moist potting mix or vermiculite
5. Cover with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity
6. Place in bright, indirect light
7. Roots should develop within 2-4 weeks
8. Transplant to their permanent location after roots are established

Six-step photo guide showing how to propagate tarragon from cuttings, from selecting a healthy stem to keeping newly planted cuttings moist under cover. Click or tap the image for more information.

By Division

Division is best done in early spring when new growth begins to appear:

1. Dig up an established tarragon plant (at least 2-3 years old)
2. Gently shake off excess soil to expose the root system
3. Using a sharp knife, divide the root ball into sections, ensuring each has stems and roots
4. Replant divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant
5. Space divisions 18-24 inches apart
6. Water thoroughly after planting

From Purchased Plants

For beginners, starting with nursery plants is often the easiest method:

• Purchase plants from a reputable nursery in spring after the last frost
• Verify you're buying French tarragon by gently crushing a leaf and checking for the distinctive anise scent
• Choose plants with vibrant green leaves and no signs of yellowing
• Plant at the same depth as the nursery container, spacing plants 18-24 inches apart
• Water thoroughly after planting

Container Planting

Tarragon grows exceptionally well in containers, which can help control soil conditions:

• Select a container at least 12 inches deep and wide
• Ensure adequate drainage holes
• Use high-quality potting mix with added perlite or sand (about 20% by volume)
• Plant at the same depth as the nursery container
• Place in a location receiving 6-8 hours of sunlight
• For winter protection in cold regions, move containers to a sheltered location

A lush green tarragon plant growing successfully in a metal pot on a sunlit wooden deck, surrounded by other potted herbs. Click or tap the image for more information.

Care and Maintenance for Healthy Tarragon

Proper care ensures your tarragon plants remain productive and flavorful throughout the growing season.

Watering Schedule

Tarragon prefers soil that dries out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot and plant failure.

• Newly planted tarragon: Water thoroughly after planting, then keep soil consistently moist (not wet) for the first 2-3 weeks until established
• Established plants: Allow soil to dry out between waterings; typically water once every 7-10 days during growing season
• Container plants: Check moisture more frequently as containers dry out faster; water when the top inch of soil feels dry
• During hot weather: Increase watering frequency but not amount; morning watering is best
• Winter care: Reduce watering significantly during dormant period

Watering Tip: Tarragon is drought-tolerant once established. When in doubt, it's better to underwater than overwater this herb.

Fertilizing Needs

Tarragon produces the best flavor when grown in moderately fertile soil. Excessive fertilization results in lush growth but diminished flavor.

• Apply a light application of balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer in early spring
• For container plants, use half-strength liquid organic fertilizer once a month during growing season
• Stop fertilizing by mid-summer to prepare plants for fall and winter
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which reduce essential oil content

Pruning Techniques

Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents plants from becoming leggy:

1. Begin harvesting when plants reach 6-8 inches tall
2. Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage branching
3. Remove flower buds as they appear to maintain leaf production
4. In mid-summer, cut back plants by one-third to stimulate fresh growth
5. In late fall, cut plants back to 2 inches above soil level in regions with mild winters

Instructional image showing where to cut tarragon stems above leaf nodes for proper pruning Click or tap the image for more information.

Winter Protection

French tarragon is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 but benefits from winter protection in colder regions:

For Garden Plants:

• After first frost, cut back stems to 2 inches above soil
• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch (straw, leaves, or pine needles)
• In zones 4-5, cover with a frost blanket during extreme cold
• Remove mulch gradually in spring as new growth appears

For Container Plants:

• Move containers to a protected location (unheated garage or basement)
• Reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks
• Alternatively, bury containers in the ground up to the rim and mulch
• In spring, gradually reintroduce to outdoor conditions

Common Pests and Diseases

While tarragon is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, a few issues can arise. Here's how to identify and address them using organic methods:

Pests

Aphids

Signs: Clusters of tiny green or black insects on new growth; sticky residue on leaves

Treatment: Spray with strong water stream to dislodge; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations

Spider Mites

Signs: Fine webbing on undersides of leaves; stippled, yellowing foliage

Treatment: Increase humidity; spray leaves (including undersides) with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil

Leafhoppers

Signs: Small, wedge-shaped insects that jump when disturbed; mottled leaves

Treatment: Remove affected leaves; use yellow sticky traps; apply diatomaceous earth around plants

Diseases

Powdery Mildew

Signs: White, powdery coating on leaves; typically appears in humid conditions

Treatment: Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; spray with diluted milk solution (1:9 milk to water) or commercial organic fungicide

Root Rot

Signs: Wilting despite moist soil; yellowing leaves; soft, brown roots

Treatment: Improve drainage; reduce watering; in severe cases, take healthy cuttings to start new plants

Rust

Signs: Orange-brown pustules on leaf undersides; yellowing foliage

Treatment: Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; apply sulfur-based fungicide for severe cases

Prevention Tip: The best defense against pests and diseases is maintaining optimal growing conditions. Proper spacing, good air circulation, and appropriate watering significantly reduce the risk of problems.

Landscape infographic showing common tarragon pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, leafhoppers, rust fungus, powdery mildew, cutworms, root rot, and botrytis blight, with labeled photos for identification. Click or tap the image for more information.

Harvesting and Storing Tarragon

Knowing when and how to harvest tarragon ensures you'll capture its peak flavor and aroma.

When to Harvest

Timing is crucial for optimal flavor in your tarragon harvest:

• First harvest: When plants reach 6-8 inches tall, typically 6-8 weeks after planting
• Peak season: Late spring through mid-summer, before flowering begins
• Best time of day: Morning, after dew has dried but before the heat of the day
• Frequency: Regular harvesting (every 2-3 weeks) encourages new growth
• Final harvest: Complete a larger harvest in late summer before plants begin to decline

How to Harvest

Proper harvesting techniques help maintain plant health while maximizing your yield:

1. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
2. Cut stems 2-3 inches above the ground
3. Harvest no more than one-third of the plant at once
4. Focus on stems rather than individual leaves
5. Select stems with bright green, aromatic leaves

Hands harvesting a tarragon stem at the correct height using garden scissors in a green herb garden. Click or tap the image for more information.

Fresh Storage Methods

To keep freshly harvested tarragon at its best:

• Short-term (1-2 days): Place stems in a glass of water like a bouquet, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate
• Medium-term (up to 1 week): Wrap stems in slightly damp paper towels, place in a perforated plastic bag, and refrigerate
• Herb-infused vinegar: Place clean stems in white wine vinegar for a flavorful addition to dressings and marinades

Drying Tarragon

While tarragon loses some flavor when dried, it's still worth preserving:

1. Harvest stems in the morning after dew has dried
2. Rinse gently if needed and pat completely dry
3. Bundle 5-8 stems together with twine or a rubber band
4. Hang bundles upside down in a warm, dark, well-ventilated area
5. Allow to dry for 1-2 weeks until leaves crumble easily
6. Remove dried leaves from stems and store in airtight containers
7. Keep in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months

Freezing Tarragon

Freezing preserves more flavor than drying:

Method 1: Whole Leaves

1. Remove leaves from stems
2. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer
3. Freeze until solid (about 2 hours)
4. Transfer to freezer bags or containers
5. Store for up to 6 months

Method 2: Herb Cubes

1. Chop leaves finely
2. Fill ice cube trays halfway with leaves
3. Cover with water or olive oil
4. Freeze until solid
5. Transfer cubes to freezer bags
6. Store for up to 12 months

Still life showing dried tarragon, frozen tarragon in ice cubes, and tarragon preserved in vinegar on a rustic wooden table. Click or tap the image for more information.

Companion Planting with Tarragon

Tarragon makes an excellent companion for many garden plants. Its aromatic qualities can help repel certain pests while enhancing the growth of neighboring plants.

Good Companions

• Eggplant: Tarragon may improve growth and flavor
• Tomatoes: Tarragon can deter pests that attack tomatoes
• Peppers: Grow well together and share similar requirements
• Cabbage family: Tarragon may help repel cabbage moths
• Strawberries: Tarragon can enhance strawberry growth
• Other herbs: Basil, thyme, and parsley make good neighbors

Poor Companions

• Fennel: Competes with tarragon and may inhibit growth
• Mint: Too aggressive and will compete for space
• Sage: May compete for similar nutrients
• Rosemary: Different water requirements can make co-planting challenging

Beneficial Garden Layout

Consider these arrangements when planning your garden:

• Plant tarragon at the corners of raised vegetable beds to help deter pests
• Create an herb border with tarragon spaced between lower-growing herbs
• Intersperse tarragon plants throughout vegetable gardens rather than grouping them
• Use tarragon in container combinations with compatible herbs and vegetables

A companion planting garden bed with tarragon growing alongside tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage, beans, onions, and marigolds. Click or tap the image for more information.

Troubleshooting Common Growing Problems

Even experienced gardeners encounter challenges when growing tarragon. Here's how to identify and resolve common issues:

Leggy, Sparse Growth

Causes: Insufficient light, overcrowding, or excessive nitrogen fertilizer

Solutions:

• Move plants to a sunnier location (at least 6 hours of direct sun)
• Thin plants to ensure proper spacing (18-24 inches apart)
• Cut back on nitrogen-rich fertilizers
• Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth

Yellowing Leaves

Causes: Overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation

Solutions:

• Check soil moisture and reduce watering if soil feels wet
• Improve drainage by adding organic matter or raising the planting area
• Apply a balanced, organic fertilizer if plants show signs of nutrient deficiency
• Inspect for pests on leaf undersides and treat accordingly

Poor Flavor

Causes: Wrong variety (Russian instead of French), excessive fertilizer, insufficient sunlight, or harvesting at wrong time

Solutions:

• Verify you're growing French tarragon by checking the aroma
• Reduce fertilizer applications to enhance essential oil production
• Ensure plants receive adequate sunlight
• Harvest in morning hours before the heat of the day

Winter Die-Back

Causes: Excessive moisture during cold months, insufficient protection in cold zones

Solutions:

• Improve winter drainage by adding coarse sand to soil
• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch after ground freezes
• In zones 4-5, cover plants with frost blankets during extreme cold
• Consider growing in containers that can be moved to protected areas

Flowering and Reduced Leaf Production

Causes: Natural maturation process, stress from heat or drought

Solutions:

• Remove flower buds as soon as they appear
• Cut back plants by one-third in mid-summer to stimulate new growth
• Provide afternoon shade during hottest months
• Ensure consistent watering during dry periods

Landscape infographic showing common tarragon plant problems such as yellowing leaves, wilting, leaf spots, powdery mildew, aphids, and root rot with causes and tips. Click or tap the image for more information.

Enjoying Your Tarragon Harvest

Growing your own tarragon rewards you with a fresh, flavorful herb that enhances countless dishes. French tarragon's distinctive anise-like flavor pairs beautifully with chicken, fish, eggs, and vegetables. It's an essential ingredient in béarnaise sauce and adds complexity to vinaigrettes and marinades.

With proper care and attention to its specific needs, your tarragon plants can provide years of harvests. Remember that this herb prefers well-drained soil, moderate watering, and regular harvesting to maintain its bushy growth habit. Whether you're growing in garden beds or containers, tarragon makes a valuable addition to any herb garden.

Fresh tarragon on a wooden cutting board with chopped herbs, olive oil, and a skillet of chicken garnished with tarragon in a warm kitchen setting. Click or tap the image for more information.

Further Reading

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