French tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa
Also known asEstragon · Dragon's wort · True tarragon
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–9 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- frost hardy
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.4 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A moderately demanding perennial herb. EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5. Temperature: 15–25°C (cool to moderate; struggles in sustained heat above 30°C and high humidity). Full sun (DLI 16-22 mol/m2/day). Well-drained media is critical; tarragon roots rot in waterlogged conditions. Container (15 L) with perlite or expanded clay. Propagation ONLY by division of existing clumps or stem cuttings; if someone offers you tarragon seeds, it's the flavorless Russian type. Purchase a confirmed French tarragon plant from a reputable herb nursery. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches when pinched. The flavor is best in fresh leaves; dried tarragon is acceptable but loses much of the anise complexity. For tarragon vinegar: pack fresh tarragon sprigs into a bottle, cover with white wine vinegar, steep for 2-4 weeks. The resulting vinegar is indispensable for vinaigrettes and bearnaise. French tarragon goes dormant in winter; the above-ground growth dies back and new shoots emerge in spring.