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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. |
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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. |
Florida
Backyard Vegetable Gardener 
