Mexican tarragon grows 2 feet tall and wide, so plant one per square foot.

When planting Mexican tarragon in your garden, remember the plant’s space requirements per square foot. Follow these guidelines for optimal growth:
1. Plant one Mexican tarragon per square foot.
2. Ensure each plant has enough space to reach its full 2-foot height and width.
3. Prune regularly to maintain a compact and healthy growth.
By adhering to these recommendations, you can enjoy a lush and flourishing tarragon garden in your own backyard.

Mexican tarragon grows 2′ feet tall and wide, so plant one per square foot.

How much space does tarragon need to grow?

Tarragon requires about 18-24 inches of space to grow optimally. Plant individual tarragon plants 24 inches apart to ensure they have enough room to develop. Ensure the soil is well-draining and receives plenty of sunlight, as tarragon thrives in sunny locations. Water the plants regularly but avoid waterlogging the soil to prevent root rot. Harvest the leaves as needed for fresh use or drying.

Can you take cuttings from tarragon?

Yes, you can take cuttings from tarragon. To do this, collect three to five new transplants from the parent French tarragon plant. Propagation can also be achieved by taking cuttings from young stems early in the morning. Cut a 4 to 8 inch (10-20 cm) portion of stem just below a node, and then remove the lower one-third of the leaves. This process helps in growing new tarragon plants quickly.

Can you grow tarragon hydroponically?

Yes, tarragon can be grown hydroponically. Tarragon is resilient to extreme temperatures, with a cold hardiness down to -10°F. French tarragon, the preferred variety, is a low-growing plant with aromatic leaves resembling a blend of anise and mint. To successfully grow tarragon hydroponically:

1. Choose a nutrient-rich hydroponic solution.
2. Provide ample light, as tarragon thrives in full sun.
3. Maintain proper pH levels around 6.0-6.8.
4. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Can tarragon be grown hydroponically?


Yes, French tarragon can be grown hydroponically. It doesn’t spread underground or reseed, so new plants must be grown from cuttings to maintain its classic flavor. To successfully grow tarragon hydroponically, follow these tips:

1. Choose a nutrient-rich hydroponic solution.
2. Provide ample light, ideally 14-16 hours per day.
3. Maintain a stable pH level between 6.0-6.5.
4. Keep the growing environment well-ventilated to prevent mold or mildew.

How much room does tarragon need to grow?

Tarragon needs about 24 inches of space to grow. Keep French tarragon plants trimmed to preserve their shape. Divide plants in spring for optimal vigor. To ensure strong growth and flavor, renew French tarragon every 2 to 3 years.

Can I drink tarragon as a tea?

Yes, you can drink tarragon as a tea. Enjoy continuous flavor all season long by carefully pruning tarragon for optimal growth. Begin by pinching off the tender tips of new growth as soon as they emerge in the spring. With this method, you can maintain a fresh supply of tarragon for tea from spring to fall. Photo by Lorna Kring.

What is the best tasting tarragon?

The tastiest tarragon variety is French tarragon. To grow tarragon successfully, ensure well-draining soil and water when the top layer is dry. Harvest sprigs from established plants once they reach sufficient size for usage. Remember to check soil moisture regularly, as tarragon is drought-tolerant but needs consistent watering for optimal growth.

Is tarragon drought tolerant?

Tarragon is indeed drought-tolerant. To ensure its well-being, monitor soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch dries out. When the plants have grown sufficiently, you can start harvesting sprigs for use. Additional tips for caring for drought-tolerant tarragon plants include:

1. Planting in well-drained soil.
2. Providing occasional deep watering instead of frequent shallow watering.
3. Mulching around the plants to retain soil moisture.
4. Pruning to promote healthy growth.
5. Avoiding over-fertilization, as tarragon prefers lean soil.

How tall does tarragon get?

French tarragon grows to a height of about 18 to 24 inches. It has a well-behaved nature in the garden as it doesn’t spread underground or reseed. Since it rarely flowers and does not produce seeds, new plants must be propagated from rooted cuttings to preserve the characteristic tarragon flavor. This process ensures the continuation of the plant in the garden.

Why is tarragon called dragon?

Tarragon is called “dragon” due to its name’s possible derivation from the Latin word “dracunculus,” meaning “little dragon.” This herb is widely used in dishes with chicken, fish, shellfish, butter, and cream, accented well by lemon in juice or zest form. Tarragon showcases the advantages of utilizing herbs at various points during cooking, enhancing flavors and adding complexity to dishes.

Why is tarragon so expensive?


Tarragon is considered expensive due to its versatility in enhancing dishes, such as chicken, fish, shellfish, butter, and cream. Its citrusy notes are complemented well by lemon juice and zest. Using tarragon at various cooking stages showcases the value of incorporating herbs for flavor enhancement.

Can you grow tarragon in water?

Yes, you can grow tarragon in water. To do so, you can propagate tarragon from cuttings by placing them in water until they develop roots, and then transfer them to a pot with soil. Alternatively, growing tarragon from seeds is possible by germinating them on a damp paper towel before transplanting them into a soilless potting mix. Remember not to cover the seeds when planted directly into the soil and lightly press them in.

How does tarragon spread?

French tarragon does not spread underground like other herbs or reseed, as it rarely flowers and does not produce seeds. To propagate new plants with classic tarragon flavor, rooted cuttings are needed.

1. French tarragon is best propagated from rooted cuttings.
2. It does not spread underground or reseed due to its limited flowering and seed production.
3. New plants need to be grown from rooted cuttings to maintain the classic tarragon flavor.

Are tarragon and marjoram similar?

Are tarragon and marjoram similar? Tarragon is commonly used in dishes with chicken, fish, shellfish, butter, and cream. It pairs well with lemon, both the juice and zest, enhancing its citrusy flavor. Tarragon showcases the importance of incorporating herbs at various cooking stages.

1. Tarragon belongs to the sunflower family, while marjoram is a member of the mint family.
2. Marjoram has a sweeter taste compared to the slightly licorice-like flavor of tarragon.
3. Both herbs are versatile and can be used in various culinary dishes.
4. Tarragon is often used fresh, while marjoram can be used fresh or dried.

How much space does tarragon need?

At maturity, tarragon will need a 3-foot (90 cm) square space. Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Can you grow tarragon indoors?

You can grow tarragon in a container indoors if you’re lucky enough to have a spot that gets six hours of sunlight or more a day. Make sure to use a deep pot — 10 to 12 inches is about the minimum you should consider. Tarragon sends out an aggressive root system and needs as much room under as it does above ground.

In conclusion, determining the number of tarragon plants per square foot depends on various factors such as the variety of tarragon, desired plant density, and growth habits. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to ensure optimal growth and avoid overcrowding. Remember to provide adequate sunlight, water, and well-draining soil for healthy tarragon plants. Experiment with different spacing to find what works best for your garden or indoor herb bed. By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate tarragon and enjoy its aromatic flavor in your culinary creations. Happy gardening!