Step-by-Step Growing Guide
French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) cannot be grown from seed — all true French tarragon must be propagated from cuttings, division, or purchased nursery transplants. Avoid any tarragon sold as seed; that plant is Russian tarragon, a weedy, flavorless impostor with no culinary value. Plant in light, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5; French tarragon despises wet conditions. Sandy loam is ideal. Space plants 18–24 inches apart in full sun. Water moderately — established plants are somewhat drought-tolerant and root rot is a serious risk if drainage is imperfect. Do not fertilize heavily; excessive nitrogen dilutes the volatile oils that create the characteristic anise-like flavor. In cold climates (zones 4–7), plants die back to the ground in winter and reemerge reliably in spring — mulch the crown lightly for protection. Divide established clumps every 3 years to maintain vigor; older plants lose flavor intensity. Cut back by half after the first flush to promote fresh aromatic growth.