![Tarragon Plant](jpg/tarragon.jpg)
Tarragon
Tarragon comes in two varieties, French tarragon which you'll often see in shop, and Russian tarragon. The Russian variety is hardier so a good option to grow at home as it doesn't need protection in winter. Both types are perennial and have a distinctive aniseed taste
Growing calendar | |
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Sow indoors | Mar - Apr |
Plant out/transplant | May - Jun |
Harvest | May - Sep |
How to grow tarragon
Plant bought French tarragon plants or use rooted cuttings taken in the summer (7cm long shoots). If you want to grow tarragon from seed choose the Russian tarragon variety.
Choose well-drained soil in a a sunny site.
Cut back shoots to encourage lush growth. Remove flower spikes to prolong leaf production. Protect French tarragon with horticultural fleece in colder winters.
Harvesting and using tarragon
Pick tarragon leaves before flowering for use fresh or for freezing. Tarragon is a perennial herbs so plants will crop year after year. Dig up and split tarragon plants every two years to maintain vigour.
Growing notes | |
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Difficulty | Moderate |
Germination time | 7-14 days |
Average time to harvest | From 12 weeks |
Equipment needed | Horticultural fleece |
Average plant size | Up to 90cm tall, 45cm wide |
Family group to grow with | Asteraceae: lettuce, chicory |
Seed saving notes | Tricky |
Key nutritional content | Fresh: calcium |