French Tarragon Planting Guide
Prized culinary herb with anise-like flavor; essential for classic French cuisine
Best Time and Place to Plant Tarragon
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant French Tarragon in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 80F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 15 to June 15 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 10 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 1 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | April 20 to May 30 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 15 to May 25 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 10 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | March 20 to May 10 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 10 to May 1 | August 1 to September 15 |
| Zone 10 | February 15 to April 15 | August 15 to October 1 |
| Zone 11 | January 15 to March 15 | September 1 to November 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to March 1 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 18 inches apart, 24 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 60F to 80F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water every 7-10 days; well-drained soil critical; avoid overwatering
- Days to harvest: 60
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Very light feeding in spring
- Compost organic: Light 1 inch dressing
Companion Plants
- Tomatoes
- Eggplant
- Peppers
Avoid Planting Near
No avoid-planting conflicts are listed yet.
Harvest Signs
- Harvest 6-8 inch stem tips
- Pinch back to encourage bushy growth
- Best flavor just before flowering in summer
- Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
FAQs
When should I plant Tarragon?
Tarragon planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Tarragon?
The best time of year to plant Tarragon is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 60F to 80F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Tarragon?
Plant French Tarragon in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 80F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Tarragon?
Plant Tarragon about 18 inches apart, with rows around 24 inches apart.
What grows well with Tarragon?
Tarragon is commonly paired with Tomatoes, Eggplant, Peppers.