When to Plant French Tarragon in Melbourne — Cool Temperate Guide
The true French tarragon prized in classical French cuisine. Critical fact: French tarragon does NOT set viable seed in Australia (or anywhere). Any 'tarragon seed' you find for sale is Russian tarragon (A. dracunculus var. inodora), which has inferior flavour. True French tarragon can ONLY be propagated by division or cuttings. It struggles in hot, humid climates and is best suited to cool-temperate and Mediterranean zones.
How to Grow French Tarragon in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
Plant divisions in spring (Sep-Nov). Dies back in winter, regrows in spring.
- Soil
- Light, well-drained soil. Sandy loam ideal. HATES wet feet - drainage is critical.
- pH Range
- 6.5-7.5
- Sunlight
- Full sun to light afternoon shade. Needs warmth but not extreme heat.
- Spacing
- 50cm apart, 60cm between rows
- Watering
- Moderate watering. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot. More plants are killed by overwatering than underwatering.
Companion plants: Most vegetables - tarragon has few negative companions
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for French Tarragon
Recommended Varieties
- Standard French tarragon
Key Challenges
- Needs protection from severe frost
- Slugs can damage emerging spring shoots
Pro Tips
- Ideal zone for French tarragon
- Mulch crown lightly in winter to protect from hard frosts
- Divide every 3 years in spring to maintain vigour
Harvesting French Tarragon
When ready: Harvest leaves once stems are 15cm+ tall. Best flavour before any flowering.
How to harvest: Snip stem tips, cutting above a leaf node. This encourages branching. Harvest in morning for peak essential oil. Can cut entire plant to 10cm in mid-season for a flush of fresh growth.
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