How to grow Tarragon in Australia
Grow French tarragon in full sun in light, well drained soil, as it rots in wet ground. Water moderately and let the soil dry between drinks.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Sun: Part shade
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 40 cm
- Time to harvest: 75 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7.5
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to October | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to October | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to October | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | September to November | Plant French tarragon divisions Sep to Nov as new shoots appear. It dies down over winter and returns in spring; sharp drainage matters more than cold. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to October | |
| Perth & WA | March to October | |
| Tasmania | September and October | Plant French tarragon divisions Sep to Oct. Dies down in winter, returns in spring. Suits cold climates well. |
| Canberra & ACT | October and November | Plant French tarragon divisions Oct to Nov as shoots appear. It dies right down in winter and returns in spring; mulch the crown and keep drainage sharp. |
| North Queensland | Not suited | Not suited. French tarragon needs a cold winter rest and rots in wet ground. Grow Mexican tarragon instead, which handles the heat and humidity. |
| Darwin & Top End | Not suited | Not suited. French tarragon needs a cold winter rest and rots in wet ground. Grow Mexican tarragon instead, which handles the heat and humidity. |
Companion planting
Good companions
- Most vegetables
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Pick sprigs once plants are growing strongly, with best flavour in soft new growth. Snip tips and it keeps producing through the warm season.
Storage
Fridge loosely wrapped, up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays with olive oil. Dry less well than other herbs.