About Tarragon
Tarragon Introduction
Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a perennial herb renowned for its culinary uses and distinctive flavor profile. Native to Eurasia and North America, this aromatic plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers and daisies. Tarragon is characterized by its slender, branching stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves that emit a sweet anise-like aroma when crushed.
There are two main varieties of tarragon: French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) and Russian tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. inodora). French tarragon is the preferred variety for culinary purposes due to its superior flavor and aroma. It rarely produces flowers or seeds, making vegetative propagation the primary method of cultivation. Russian tarragon, while hardier and easier to grow, has a milder flavor and is considered less desirable for cooking.
Tarragon plays a significant role in French cuisine, where it is one of the four fines herbes, along with chervil, chives, and parsley. Its leaves are used fresh or dried to flavor various dishes, including sauces, vinegars, and marinades. The herb is particularly well-suited for chicken, fish, and egg dishes. Beyond its culinary applications, tarragon has been used in traditional medicine for its potential digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, although more research is needed to substantiate these claims.
Tarragon Care & Growing Guide
Caring for tarragon requires attention to its specific needs to ensure healthy growth and optimal flavor. This herb thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. When planting tarragon, choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily. The soil should be fertile and slightly alkaline, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Amending the soil with organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
Watering is a crucial aspect of tarragon care. While the plant prefers moderately moist soil, it’s important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and ensure good drainage to prevent water-logged conditions. During hot, dry periods, increase watering frequency, but always check the soil moisture before adding water.
Fertilization should be done sparingly, as tarragon doesn’t require heavy feeding. A light application of well-balanced, organic fertilizer once in the spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilization can lead to lush growth at the expense of flavor intensity. Regular pruning is beneficial for tarragon, encouraging bushier growth and preventing the plant from becoming woody. Harvest leaves regularly to promote continued growth and maintain the plant’s shape.
Soil
Tarragon thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly alkaline pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil composition is rich in organic matter, and with excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. A mix of potting soil and pumice or perlite in equal parts, with some added compost, can create an optimal growing medium. The plant benefits from soil amendments such as compost or worm castings, which improve soil structure and provide slow-release nutrients.
Proper soil composition significantly affects tarragon’s health and growth. Well-draining soil prevents root rot and other fungal diseases, while the slightly alkaline pH promotes nutrient availability and uptake. Tarragon is sensitive to poor soil conditions, and its growth and flavor can be compromised in suboptimal soil.
Soil problems that can affect tarragon include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
2. Compaction: Restricts root growth and reduces aeration.
3. Inappropriate pH: Can affect nutrient availability and uptake.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur from over-fertilization or hard water, damaging roots and eventually leading to root rot.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: Can result in stunted growth or yellowing leaves.
6. Pot boundness: Can occur in container-grown plants, limiting growth and nutrient uptake.
To address these issues, ensure proper soil preparation before planting, and regularly amend the soil with organic matter to maintain its structure and fertility.
Fertilizer
Tarragon has moderate fertilization needs and can thrive with minimal supplemental feeding. Over-fertilization can lead to lush growth at the expense of flavor intensity, so it’s important to strike a balance.
Recommended fertilizer mixture:
– Use a well-balanced, organic fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5-5-5 or 10-10-10.
– Alternatively, use an organic fertilizer like compost tea or worm castings.
Optimal fertilization schedule:
1. Spring: Apply a light dose of well-balanced organic fertilizer when new growth begins.
2. Mid-season: If growth seems slow, apply a half-strength dose of fertilizer.
3. Late summer/fall: Avoid fertilizing to allow the plant to prepare for slowed growth common during the cold months of the year.
Signs of over-fertilization:
– Excessive, soft growth
– Reduced flavor intensity
– Leaf burn or yellowing
– Salt buildup on soil surface
Signs of under-fertilization:
– Slow growth
– Pale or yellowing leaves
– Reduced leaf size
– Weak stems
Organic fertilizer alternatives:
1. Compost: Mix compost into the soil before planting.
2. Compost tea: Apply monthly during the growing season.
3. Worm castings: Incorporate into the soil or use as a top dressing.
Specific nutrient requirements:
– Tarragon benefits from balanced nutrition but is particularly responsive to nitrogen for leaf growth.
– Magnesium and iron are important for chlorophyll production and overall plant health.
Common deficiencies:
– Nitrogen deficiency: Yellowing of older leaves, stunted growth.
– Iron deficiency: Yellowing between leaf veins (chlorosis), particularly in young leaves.
– Magnesium deficiency: Yellowing between leaf veins of older leaves.
To address deficiencies, use a well-balanced organic fertilizer or specific amendments like Epsom salts for magnesium or chelated iron for iron deficiency. Always follow package instructions and start with lower concentrations to avoid over-fertilization.
Watering
Tarragon prefers moderately moist soil but is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This encourages deep root growth and prevents waterlogging.
Water quality preferences:
– Tarragon prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0).
– Rainwater or filtered water is ideal, as tarragon can be sensitive to chlorine and other chemicals in tap water.
– If using tap water, let it sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate.
Signs of underwatering:
– Wilting or drooping leaves
– Dry, crispy leaf edges
– Slow growth or leaf drop
Signs of overwatering:
– Yellowing leaves
– Soft, mushy stems near the soil line
– Fungal growth on soil surface
– Root rot (if severe)
Watering needs change seasonally:
– Spring and Summer: Increase watering frequency during active growth.
– Fall: Reduce watering as growth slows.
– Winter: Water sparingly, especially if the plant is dormant.
During different growth stages:
– Young plants: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
– Established plants: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
– Flowering (if occurs): Maintain consistent moisture to support bloom development.
Adjust watering based on environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and soil type.
Lighting
Tarragon thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of direct light daily. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent leaf scorching. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too little light will result in leggy growth and reduced flavor intensity.
Signs of insufficient light include:
– Elongated, spindly stems
– Pale or yellowing leaves
– Reduced growth rate
– Decreased flavor intensity
Signs of excessive light exposure, especially in hot climates, include:
– Wilting or drooping leaves
– Brown or scorched leaf edges
– Stunted growth
To adjust lighting if natural conditions are suboptimal:
1. For insufficient light: Move plant to a sunnier location of the home or use full-spectrum grow lights to supplement natural light. Tarragon does best near a south-facing window.
2. For excessive light: Move the plant to a lower light area of the home or shade nearby windows during the afternoon hours.
Temperature
Tarragon thrives in moderate temperatures, with an ideal range of 60Β°F to 70Β°F (15Β°C to 21Β°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50Β°F (10Β°C) and as high as 80Β°F (27Β°C), but extreme temperatures can affect growth and flavor intensity.
Temperature tolerance:
– Cold hardiness: French tarragon is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, while Russian tarragon can survive in zones 3-9.
– Heat tolerance: Can withstand temperatures up to 90Β°F (32Β°C) but may require extra care.
Tips for temperature management:
1. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent heat stress.
2. If growing indoors, keep away from cold drafts and heat sources like radiators.
Protecting tarragon from extreme temperatures:
– Cold protection: If growing tarragon outdoors for the summer, make sure to bring the plant indoors when temperatures drop below 50Β°F (10Β°C).
– Heat protection: Provide shade, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation during hot spells.
– Maintain consistent room temperatures and avoid placing near windows that may cause temperature fluctuations.
Note that while tarragon can survive temperature extremes, prolonged exposure can affect plant health, growth rate, and flavor intensity. Monitoring and adjusting growing conditions accordingly will help maintain a healthy, flavorful tarragon plant.
Humidity
Tarragon prefers moderate humidity levels, typically between 40-50%. While it can tolerate a range of humidity conditions, maintaining proper moisture levels can contribute to healthier growth and more flavorful leaves.
Symptoms of low humidity stress in tarragon:
– Dry, crispy leaf edges
– Leaf drop
– Stunted growth
– Increased susceptibility to pests like spider mites
Symptoms of high humidity stress:
– Fungal growth on leaves or stems
– Leaf yellowing or browning
– Increased risk of root rot if combined with overwatering
To increase humidity:
1. Pebble trays: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in the water.
2. Misting: Lightly mist the leaves occasionally, but avoid over-misting, as it can lead to fungal issues.
3. Humidifiers: Use a room humidifier near the plant, especially in dry indoor environments.
4. Grouping plants: Place tarragon near other plants to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
To decrease humidity:
1. Improve air circulation: Use fans or open windows to promote air movement.
2. Reduce watering frequency: Allow soil to dry more between waterings.
3. Use a dehumidifier: In extremely humid environments, a dehumidifier can help maintain optimal conditions.
Effectiveness of methods:
– Pebble trays and grouping plants are gentle, low-maintenance options suitable for most situations.
– Misting is moderately effective but requires regular attention and can increase the risk of fungal issues if overdone.
– Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are highly effective but may be necessary only in extreme conditions.
Choose the method that best suits your specific indoor environment and the level of care you can provide.
Propagation
Tarragon can be propagated through several methods, with stem cuttings and root division being the most common for French tarragon. Here’s a detailed guide on propagation methods:
1. Stem Cuttings (most common for French tarragon):
1. In late spring or early summer, take 4-6 inch cuttings from new growth.
2. Remove lower leaves, leaving 2-3 pairs at the top.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
4. Plant in a well-draining potting mix.
5. Keep soil moist and place in bright, indirect light.
6. Roots should develop in 2-4 weeks.
7. Once rooted, transplant to individual pots or garden beds.
2. Root Division (best done in spring or fall):
1. Dig up an established plant.
2. Gently separate the root ball into sections, each with stems and roots.
3. Replant divisions immediately in prepared soil.
4. Water thoroughly and keep soil moist until new growth appears.
3. Layering (less common but effective):
1. In spring, bend a low-growing stem to the ground.
2. Make a small cut on the underside of the stem.
3. Bury the cut portion in soil, leaving the tip exposed.
4. Secure with a garden staple or small stone.
5. Keep soil moist. Roots should form in 4-6 weeks.
6. Once rooted, cut the new plant from the parent and transplant.
4. Seeds (only for Russian tarragon, as French tarragon rarely produces viable seeds):
1. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
2. Use a seed starting mix and sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
3. Keep soil moist and warm (around 70Β°F/21Β°C).
4. Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
5. Transplant seedlings once plant is 1 inch high and has at least one set of true leaves.
Success rates:
– Stem cuttings and root division: High success rate (80-90%)
– Layering: Moderate to high success rate (70-80%)
– Seeds (Russian tarragon only): Moderate success rate (60-70%)
Best time for propagation:
– Spring to early summer for stem cuttings and layering
– Spring or fall for root division
– Early spring for seed sowing
Establishment time:
– Stem cuttings: 4-6 weeks for rooting, additional 4-6 weeks for establishment
– Root division: 2-4 weeks for new growth, fully established in 8-10 weeks
– Layering: 4-6 weeks for rooting, additional 2-4 weeks after transplanting
– Seeds: 6-8 weeks from sowing to transplant size, additional 4-6 weeks for establishment
Note that French tarragon, the preferred culinary variety, must be propagated vegetatively (cuttings, division, or layering) to maintain its flavor and characteristics. Russian tarragon can be grown from seeds but is less desirable for culinary use.
Potting
Potting and repotting requirements for tarragon:
Pot type:
– Use containers with adequate drainage holes.
– Terra cotta pots are ideal, as they allow soil to breathe and prevent waterlogging.
– Plastic or ceramic pots are suitable if proper drainage is ensured.
Drainage needs:
– Essential for preventing root rot.
– Ensure the pot has multiple drainage holes.
Repotting frequency:
– Young plants: Annually in spring.
– Mature plants: Every 2-3 years or when pot-bound.
Ideal soil composition:
– Use a well-draining potting mix.
– Combine equal parts potting soil and perlite or pumice.
– Add a small amount of compost for nutrients.
Signs that tarragon needs repotting:
– Roots growing out of drainage holes.
– Water draining too quickly or not absorbing.
– Plant becoming top-heavy or unstable.
– Slowed growth or yellowing leaves.
– Soil drying out unusually fast.
Root pruning:
– Gently trim up to 1/3 of the roots when repotting.
– Remove any dead, diseased, or circling roots.
– Use clean, sharp pruning shears.
Transitioning to a new pot:
1. Water the plant thoroughly a day before repotting.
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
3. Loosen the root ball and prune if necessary.
4. Place a layer of fresh potting mix in the new pot.
5. Position the plant at the same depth as it was in the old pot.
6. Fill around the roots with potting mix, firming gently.
7. Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days.
8. Gradually reintroduce to its normal light conditions.
Minimizing stress during repotting:
– Repot in spring when the plant is actively growing.
– Avoid repotting during extreme weather conditions.
– Keep the plant out of direct light for a few days after repotting.
– Maintain consistent moisture but avoid overwatering.
– Hold off on fertilizing for 4-6 weeks after repotting.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tarragon plant remains healthy and productive in its container environment.
Pruning
Pruning Needs and Techniques for Tarragon
Best Time for Pruning
Spring and throughout the growing season
Frequency
Regular light pruning every 2-3 weeks during active growth
Purpose
- Encourage bushier growth
- Prevent woody stems
- Maintain plant shape
- Harvest leaves for culinary use
Tools
- Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
- Disinfectant solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water)
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
- Sanitize pruning tools with disinfectant solution.
- Identify stems that are 6-8 inches long for pruning.
- Cut stems back by 1/3 to 1/2 their length, just above a leaf node.
- Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems at the base.
- Thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
- Pinch off flower buds as they appear to maintain leaf flavor.
- Harvest outer stems first, working your way inward.
Preparation
Water the plant thoroughly the day before pruning to reduce stress.
Aftercare
Water lightly after pruning and avoid fertilizing for a week.
Special Considerations
- Avoid pruning more than 1/3 of the plant at once.
- Light pruning on a regular basis will control size.
Blooming
Tarragon typically blooms in late summer to early fall, although flowering is rare in cultivated French tarragon. When it does occur, the flowers are small, greenish or yellowish, and arranged in inconspicuous clusters. Blooming is more common in Russian tarragon. The flowering period is generally short, lasting a few weeks. Optimal conditions for blooming include full sun exposure and well-drained soil. However, for culinary purposes, flowering is often discouraged, as it can reduce the flavor intensity of the leaves.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Spider mites
Whiteflies
Symptoms
Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves; stippling or yellowing of leaves
Whiteflies: Tiny white flying insects on leaf undersides; yellowing leaves
Treatment
Spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge pests
Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
Introduce beneficial insects like greenhouse ladybugs or lacewings
Maintain good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent pest problems
Diseases
Common issues
Powdery mildew
Root rot
Downy mildew
Rust
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting, yellowing leaves; soft, brown roots
Downy mildew: Yellow spots on upper leaf surfaces; gray, fuzzy growth on undersides
Rust: Orange or brown pustules on leaf undersides; yellowing leaves
Treatment
Root rot: Improve drainage; reduce watering; remove affected parts
Downy mildew: Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation
Rust: Remove infected leaves and avoid wetting leaves when watering
Prevent diseases by maintaining proper spacing, avoiding wetting leaves when watering, and ensuring good soil drainage
Special Features
Tarragon possesses several unique features that make it a valuable addition to both culinary and ornamental gardens. Its distinctive anise-like flavor, with notes of licorice and vanilla, makes it a prized herb in French cuisine, particularly in bΓ©arnaise sauce and fines herbes blends. The plant’s slender, upright growth habit and delicate, lance-shaped leaves add a touch of elegance to indoor herb gardens or mixed borders. Tarragon also has potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, although more research is needed to fully substantiate these claims. Additionally, the plant can act as a natural pest repellent in gardens, deterring some common insect pests with its aromatic foliage.
Plant Benefits
Tarragon offers several herbal and pharmaceutical benefits, although more research is needed to fully validate some of these claims. Traditionally, it has been used for its potential digestive properties, helping to stimulate appetite and alleviate digestive discomfort. The herb contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to overall health. Some studies suggest that tarragon may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes. It has also been used in traditional medicine to relieve pain, particularly toothaches, due to its natural anesthetic properties. Additionally, tarragon is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. However, it’s important to note that while these benefits are promising, more clinical studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of tarragon for medicinal purposes.
Additional Information
Tarragon is widely used in French cuisine and is one of the four fines herbes, along with chervil, chives, and parsley. The plant is particularly famous for its use in bΓ©arnaise sauce. The herb can be used fresh or dried, although fresh tarragon is generally preferred for its more intense flavor. Tarragon vinegar, made by steeping the herb in white wine vinegar, is a popular flavoring agent. In addition to its culinary uses, tarragon has been used in traditional medicine and is being studied for its potential health benefits. The plant is also known to have insect-repelling properties and can be used as a companion plant in gardens to deter pests.
Life Cycle
Tarragon is a perennial herb, meaning it can live for several years under proper conditions. Its life cycle begins in spring when new growth emerges from the roots. Throughout the growing season (spring to fall), the plant focuses on leaf production and stem growth. In late summer or early fall, tarragon may produce small, inconspicuous flowers, although this is rare in French tarragon. As winter approaches, the plant enters dormancy, with above-ground growth dying back. The roots remain alive underground, ready to produce new growth in the following spring. This cycle repeats annually. Dormancy may not occur indoors, however, depending on the temperature in your home.
Growth requirements for tarragon include:
1. Well-draining, fertile soil
2. Full sun to partial shade
3. Moderate watering, allowing soil to dry between waterings
4. Protection from extreme cold in winter
5. Occasional fertilization, typically in spring
6. Regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent woodiness
Tarragon can be grown as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 4-8, with some winter protection in colder areas. In warmer climates, it may need protection from intense summer heat. The plant typically reaches its mature size in 2-3 years and can continue to produce for several years with proper care and division every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
Are Tarragon Poisonous, Toxic
Tarragon is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets when consumed in normal culinary amounts. However, it contains compounds that can be harmful in large quantities. The plant contains estragole, a compound that has shown potential carcinogenic effects in high doses in animal studies. For cats, dogs, and children, ingestion of large amounts of tarragon may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The entire plant contains these compounds, with the leaves being the most commonly consumed part. Symptoms are usually mild and self-limiting. If large quantities are ingested, it’s advisable to contact a veterinarian or poison control center. To prevent accidental ingestion, keep tarragon plants out of reach of pets and children, and use the herb in moderation in cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you grow tarragon?
Tarragon grows best in full sun to partial shade, in well-draining soil. Plant in spring, water moderately, and fertilize lightly. Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth, and divide plants every 3-4 years.
What is tarragon good for?
Tarragon is primarily used as a culinary herb, especially in French cuisine. The plant is also known for potential health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and regulating blood sugar.
Is tarragon easy to grow?
Tarragon is moderately easy to grow. It requires well-draining soil, moderate watering, and occasional pruning. French tarragon can be more challenging to grow, as it is propagated by cuttings or division, not seeds.
What does tarragon taste like?
Tarragon has a distinctive anise-like flavor with notes of licorice and vanilla. The herb is described as having a sweet, aromatic taste with a slightly bitter undertone.
Can tarragon be grown indoors?
Yes, tarragon can be grown indoors in containers. It needs at least 6 hours of bright light daily, well-draining soil, and good air circulation. Regular pruning helps maintain the herb’s shape in indoor settings.
How often should you water tarragon?
Water tarragon when the top inch of soil feels dry. The plant prefers moderate moisture but is drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
What’s the difference between French and Russian tarragon?
French tarragon has a stronger, more refined flavor and is preferred for culinary use. Russian tarragon is hardier but has a milder, sometimes bitter taste. French tarragon is propagated by cuttings, while Russian can be grown from seed.
Can tarragon survive winter?
Tarragon is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. In colder regions, it may need winter protection such as mulching. In zones 4-5, consider covering the plant or moving potted tarragon indoors during harsh winters.
How do you harvest tarragon?
Harvest tarragon by cutting stems 6-8 inches long, just above a leaf node. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth. For best flavor, harvest in the morning.
Is tarragon a perennial?
Yes, tarragon is a perennial herb. With proper care, the plant can live and produce for several years indoors. In colder climates if grown outdoors, it may die back in winter but will regrow from the roots in spring.
Can I grow Tarragon indoors
Difficulty
Intermediate
Size
Medium
Light
High
Water
Medium
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
Yes
Air Purifier
Low
Artemisia dracunculus botanical details
Common Name
Tarragon
Other Common Names
Estragon, Dragon Wormwood
Botanical Name
Artemisia dracunculus
Native Area
Eurasia and North America
Family Name
Asteraceae
Plant Type
Perennial herb
Genus
Artemisia
Kingdom
Plantae
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Why did the tarragon refuse to go on a date? Because it was too busy dragon its feet!