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Growing Tarragon
Growing tarragon is quite easy. It is more or less hardy in most climates and is perennial - grows every year from the same roots, dying down in the winter and coming back to life in spring. It needs sun and shelter - grows to about 2 feet tall, so put it in the middle of your herb bed where it will benefit from the shelter of other growing herbs. Good soil drainage is needed as it won't like to have cold roots during the winter - put some fine gravel in the planting hole which will help a little. Divide it and replant it every few years so that it will maintain its flavor. There are many culinary uses for french tarragon. The strong sweetish taste means that you need to use it sparingly. Try with steaks, mushrooms, omelettes, sauce tartare, grilled fish and flavoring vinegar. Tarragon butter would be a fine addition to plain grilled meat or fish.
Rescue Remedy for Tarragon If you've been lucky enough to inherit a tarragon plant but it's out of control, then your actions will depend on what state it's in. You would need to dig it up in spring or autumn and clear the weeds from around its roots. Replant in sections, adding some fine gravel to the planting hole to improve drainage. Harvest it lightly in the first year and keep it weed free. Don't feed it, but keep it watered until it looks like it's well established.
For an explanation of gardening terms that you might not understand, please check out the Growers Dictionary section. I found that I was either skimping on explanations or giving too much information on the individual pages so I have posted all relevant terms in one section - if there's anything you need to know, please drop me an email.
Growing Tarragon - to Growing Herbs
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