When to plant
Perennial in zones 4–8. Plant divisions or cuttings in spring. Does not grow true from seed (buy plants). Grows well in containers. Divide clumps every 2–3 years to maintain vigor. Dies back in winter and returns reliably. One of the classic culinary herbs of the French kitchen.
Soil & site
Well-drained, light to average soil. pH 6.0–7.5. Does not need rich soil — excessive fertility reduces flavor intensity. Sandy loam or gravelly soil is ideal. Excellent drainage is the top priority; tarragon roots rot readily in wet conditions.
Feeding
Minimal — one light balanced fertilizer application in spring. Over-fertilizing with nitrogen produces large, lush plants with diluted flavor. Less is more for all aromatic herbs.
Common problems
Root rot in wet or poorly drained soil (the main killer). Powdery mildew in humid conditions. Aphids. Russian tarragon (grown from seed) is very different from French tarragon — it has almost no flavor. Make sure you are growing French (Artemisia dracunculus sativa) for culinary use.
When to harvest
Harvest before or just as the plant begins to flower for the most intense anise-like flavor. Stems are ready to harvest once the plant is 12 inches tall. French tarragon (the culinary variety) produces no viable seed — always grown from cuttings or divisions.
How to harvest
Snip stem tips 4–6 inches long, cutting just above a leaf node. Harvest from throughout the plant to maintain even shape. Do this 2–3 times per season. For the main harvest, cut the entire plant back by half before it flowers. Dry quickly at low heat as the essential oils dissipate fast.
Storage & use
Fresh: refrigerate loosely wrapped for 1 week. Dry quickly at low temperature (flavor fades fast when dried). Better preserved by infusing in white wine vinegar (tarragon vinegar keeps 6 months). Also excellent preserved in olive oil. Used in classic French sauces (bearnaise, fines herbes) and with chicken and fish.
Useful for growing tarragon
A few things that make this one easier — chosen for this plant, not a generic list.
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