How to Grow Tarragon

Updated June 2026

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

tarragon established stage — Established

Tarragon is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions tarragon can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the tarragon page for exact timing.

Varieties

French Tarragon, True tarragon, needs cool shade (garden centers)
Mexican Tarragon, Heat-tolerant Tagetes substitute (garden centers)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 16 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 0.8 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.
Containers: grows well in a pot of 10 in+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Root rot and Downy mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Tarragon is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant tarragon where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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