Tarragon

Common name for Artemisia dracunculus a perennial herb the leaves of which are used for seasoning, especially vinegar.

Tarragon grows to two or three feet tall and likes moderate sun, preferring a little shade during the warmest part of the day. It grows well in a rich loamy soil that holds moisture, but drains well. Mulching is beneficial to this end.

Tarragon is unique in that during growth, it seems to have little aroma, yet after the leaves or tops are harvested, the oils concentrate and start emitting their unique tarragon sweet smell, similar to freshly cut hay.

Tarragon propagates best through root division, planting the divisions at least 18 inches apart. Since tarragon has a shallow root system, care must be taken not to damage the roots when weeding, and special care must be shown during the winter after transplanting, as the root systems will not have developed fully.

Tarragon is used in vegetable dishes and soups, mild cheeses, egg dishes, fish and white sauces.

Growing Tarragon

Growing Cultures
Outdoors, containers, hydroponics.

Plant Height
Tarragon plants grow to a height of 12 to 36 inches (30 - 90cm).

Plant Spacing
Tarragon plants should be spaced 18 to 24 inches (45 - 60cm) apart.

Preferred pH Range
Tarragon will grow in a pH range between 6.5 (neutral) and 7.5 (mildly alkaline) with a preferred pH of 6.5.

Propagation
Sow Russian tarragon seed indoors in sunny location or under plant grow lights six weeks before last frost. French tarragon only propagates via division, stem cuttings, or layering.

Seed Germination Period
10 to 14 days.

Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)
6,000.

Soil Requirements
Deep, well-draining and fertile.

Alternative Growing Media
Soilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco peat, Oasis foam.

Time From Seed to Saleable Plant
Seed not recommended for French tarragon, start with plugs. Plugs to saleable plants, 7 weeks.

Sun & Lighting Requirements
Tarragon grown outdoors prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Tarragon will grow indoors satisfactorily under standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under high output fluorescent , compact fluorescent, or high intensity discharge (metal halide or high pressure sodium) plant growing lights. Keep standard fluorescent lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants, high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.

USDA Hardiness
4a to 8b.

Water Requirements
Average water needs. Water on a regular schedule, do not overwater.

Potential Pests & Diseases
Whitefly, spider mites. Minimal disease issues.

Special Notes
Drought resistant and ideal for xeriscaping. Suitable for containers and indoor cultivation. Aromatic.