French Tarragon

French Tarragon Care Guide

French Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) is a highly prized culinary herb known for its anise-like flavor, which adds a distinctive touch to a variety of dishes. Unlike Russian Tarragon, which can be bitter and less flavorful, French Tarragon is the preferred choice for chefs and home gardeners alike. In addition to its culinary uses, this herb is also a lovely addition to herb gardens, borders, and containers, providing both aesthetic and functional value.

Plant Characteristics and Appearance

French Tarragon is a hardy perennial herb with slender, lance-shaped leaves that have a glossy, deep green hue. The plant grows in a bushy, upright habit, making it an attractive addition to any garden. French Tarragon is also known for its delicate, aromatic leaves, which are the key to its culinary appeal. While it does produce small, greenish flowers in late summer, it is typically grown for its leaves rather than its blooms.

• Height: 60-90 cm (24-36 inches)
• Spread: 30-45 cm (12-18 inches)

Growing Conditions

Light Requirements

French Tarragon thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate light shade, but full sun is recommended to ensure the best flavor development in the leaves.

Soil Preferences

This herb prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). Good drainage is crucial, as French Tarragon does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. If your garden soil is heavy clay or tends to retain water, consider planting French Tarragon in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.

Watering

French Tarragon is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and reduce the frequency of watering.

Temperature and Humidity

French Tarragon is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. It prefers warm temperatures and thrives in hot, dry climates. In colder regions, it may die back in winter but will typically regrow in spring. In very cold areas, mulching the roots or growing the plant in a container that can be moved indoors may be necessary to protect it from freezing temperatures.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Pruning

Regular pruning is essential to encourage bushy growth and to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems regularly to promote branching. Harvesting the leaves frequently will also encourage new growth. In late summer, you can cut the plant back by half to keep it tidy and compact.

Fertilization

French Tarragon is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require much fertilization. A light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring will support healthy growth. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as it can reduce the flavor intensity of the leaves.

Pests and Diseases

French Tarragon is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids or whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which can occur in humid conditions.

Propagation

French Tarragon cannot be grown from seed, as it is a sterile hybrid. The most effective way to propagate French Tarragon is by division or stem cuttings. In spring or early summer, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, remove the lower leaves, and plant the cuttings in a pot filled with moist, well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings are established, then transplant them to their permanent location.

Culinary Uses

French Tarragon is a staple herb in French cuisine, known for its distinctive, sweet, and slightly licorice-like flavor. It is a key ingredient in classic dishes such as béarnaise sauce, tarragon vinegar, and various chicken and fish recipes. Fresh leaves can be used in salads, marinades, and dressings, while dried leaves retain much of their flavor and can be used throughout the year.

Summary

French Tarragon is a must-have herb for any culinary enthusiast. With its aromatic leaves, easy care, and ability to thrive in a variety of garden settings, it is both a functional and beautiful addition to your garden. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting, French Tarragon is a versatile and rewarding herb to grow.

Key Care Points:

• Height: 60-90 cm (24-36 inches)
• Spread: 30-45 cm (12-18 inches)
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy, slightly alkaline to neutral pH
• Watering: Moderate, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 4-9
• Pruning: Regular pinching and harvesting promote bushy growth
• Fertilization: Light application in spring

Growing French Tarragon in your garden not only enhances your culinary creations but also adds an attractive, aromatic element to your outdoor space. By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy the robust flavor and beauty of this essential herb throughout the growing season

• Size
  9cm

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.