Growing tarragon from seed is one of the most rewarding ways to add a gourmet touch to your home cooking. Known for its distinctive, slightly licorice-like flavor, tarragon is a must-have herb for sauces, salads, and marinades. Whether you’re growing it in pots on your balcony or in a small kitchen garden, tarragon requires minimal care but offers maximum aroma and taste.
Let’s explore how to grow, prune, and use tarragon effectively—from seed to harvest.
Choosing the Right Tarragon Variety
There are two main types of tarragon:
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French Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa): Known for its superior flavor, but usually grown from cuttings.
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Russian Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculoides): Easier to grow from seed and more resilient, though its flavor is milder.
If you’re starting from seeds, go for Russian Tarragon, which grows quickly and adapts well to various climates.
Seed Sowing and Germination
Tarragon seeds are tiny and need light to germinate. Follow these steps:
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Fill small pots or seed trays with well-draining potting mix (40% garden soil, 30% compost, 20% cocopeat, 10% sand).
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Sprinkle seeds evenly on the surface—don’t bury them deeply.
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Mist lightly with water and cover the tray with a transparent lid or plastic wrap to retain humidity.
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Place in a bright, warm location (18°C–25°C).
Germination usually takes 10–14 days. Once seedlings are about 3 inches tall, transplant them into individual pots or garden beds.
Soil, Watering, and Sunlight
Tarragon thrives in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Avoid overly rich compost—it can make the flavor less intense.
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Sunlight: 5–6 hours daily, partial shade in very hot areas.
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Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy; water 2–3 times a week.
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Drainage: Essential to prevent root rot—add gravel or pebbles at the pot’s base if needed.
Mulching with dry leaves or straw helps retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth.
Propagation and Pruning
Apart from seeds, tarragon can also be propagated through stem cuttings:
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Cut a 5-inch stem from a mature plant, remove lower leaves, and plant it in moist cocopeat.
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Roots develop within 2–3 weeks, giving you a new plant.
For pruning, trim the stems regularly once the plant reaches 8–10 inches in height. Pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.
Pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear—flowering can reduce the strength of the herb’s flavor.
Fertilizing and Maintenance
Tarragon is a light feeder. Use a diluted organic liquid fertilizer or compost tea once every 3–4 weeks. Avoid chemical fertilizers, as they can reduce flavor concentration.
Remove yellowing or older leaves to keep the plant healthy. Tarragon is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance home gardens.
Harvesting and Culinary Uses
Harvest tarragon leaves once the plant reaches 8–12 inches tall. Use scissors to cut the top leaves and soft stems, leaving at least half the plant to regrow.
Fresh leaves can be used immediately in:
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Salad dressings and vinaigrettes
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Chicken, fish, or egg dishes
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Herb butter and sauces like Béarnaise
You can also dry or freeze tarragon leaves for later use—dry them in a shaded, well-ventilated area to retain their aroma.
Conclusion
Growing tarragon from seed brings a touch of French elegance to your kitchen garden. It’s a hardy, flavorful herb that grows well even in small pots and requires little maintenance. With regular pruning and care, you can enjoy a steady supply of fresh tarragon for months—perfect for home chefs who love to elevate everyday meals naturally.
From sowing to seasoning, this simple guide ensures your tarragon plants stay lush, aromatic, and ready for every recipe.
FAQs
How long does tarragon take to grow from seeds?
It takes around 10–14 days to germinate and about 6–8 weeks for harvestable leaves.
Can tarragon grow indoors?
Yes, it grows well indoors near a sunny window or under grow lights.
How often should I water tarragon?
Water 2–3 times per week, keeping soil moist but never waterlogged.
Can I grow French tarragon from seeds?
No, French tarragon doesn’t produce viable seeds—it’s grown from cuttings instead.
When is the best time to harvest tarragon leaves?
Harvest in the morning, when the oils are strongest and flavor is at its peak.