When to Plant French Tarragon in Cairns — Tropical 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.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | — | S | S/T/D | S/T/D | T/D | T/D | — | — | — | — | — |
S = Seed Tray T = Transplant D = Direct Sow
How to Grow French Tarragon in Tropical Australia
When to Plant
French tarragon generally fails in tropical conditions. The combination of heat and humidity causes fungal death. Do not attempt.
- 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
Tropical Growing Tips for French Tarragon
Recommended Varieties
- Not recommended for tropical zones
Key Challenges
- Root rot from humidity
- Heat stress
- No dormancy period needed for vigour
Pro Tips
- Substitute with Mexican tarragon (Tagetes lucida) which has similar anise flavour and thrives in tropics
- Do NOT waste money on French tarragon plants for this zone
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.
Common French Tarragon Pests in Tropical Zones
Organic prevention: Regular misting in dry weather. Avoid dusty, hot, dry positions. Adequate watering.
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