What To Know
- Place the seedlings in the prepared holes, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Fertilize the plants once a year in the spring with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- The best time to plant out tarragon is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.
Growing tarragon, the aromatic herb with a distinctive anise-like flavor, can be a rewarding experience for both culinary enthusiasts and gardeners alike. If you’re eager to embark on this fragrant adventure, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential knowledge and step-by-step instructions on how to plant out tarragon.
Choosing the Right Tarragon Variety
Before planting, select the tarragon variety that best suits your needs. There are two main types: French and Russian. French tarragon, known for its superior flavor, is a perennial that grows slowly and requires more specific growing conditions. Russian tarragon, on the other hand, is a more vigorous perennial that can tolerate a wider range of environments.
Selecting the Ideal Planting Site
Tarragon thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a sunny location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by digging a hole that is twice the width of the tarragon’s root ball and just as deep. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and improve its structure.
Transplanting Tarragon Seedlings
If you’re starting from seedlings, transplant them when they have developed their first set of true leaves. Carefully remove the seedlings from their containers and gently loosen any tangled roots. Place the seedlings in the prepared holes, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Planting Tarragon from Cuttings
You can also propagate tarragon from cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the end of the cutting into rooting hormone and insert it into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny location.
Watering and Mulching
Water the tarragon plants deeply after planting. Mulch around the plants with organic matter such as compost, straw, or bark chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing Tarragon
Tarragon does not require heavy fertilization. Fertilize the plants once a year in the spring with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduce the plant’s flavor.
Harvesting Tarragon
You can begin harvesting tarragon leaves once the plants have established themselves. Cut the leaves as needed, using sharp scissors or a knife. Harvest the leaves before the plant flowers, as the flavor is more intense at this stage.
Tips for Successful Tarragon Cultivation
- Plant tarragon in a raised bed if your soil is poorly drained.
- Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Divide the tarragon plants every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
- Tarragon can be grown in containers, but ensure that the containers have adequate drainage.
Final Thoughts
Planting out tarragon is a relatively straightforward process that can yield a bountiful harvest of this aromatic herb. By following these step-by-step instructions and incorporating the tips provided, you can enjoy the fresh, flavorful leaves of tarragon in your culinary creations.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: When is the best time to plant out tarragon?
A: The best time to plant out tarragon is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.
Q: Can I grow tarragon in partial shade?
A: Tarragon prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. However, the plants may be less vigorous and produce fewer leaves.
Q: How often should I water tarragon plants?
A: Water the tarragon plants deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
