True tarragon plants - Artemisia dracunculus

Tarragon appreciates rich, light, and well-drained soils. Choose a sunny spot. Plant in spring, from April to June.

In open ground

If necessary, add compost to the soil during the previous autumn. Loosen the soil, and hoe in the compost to a depth of 5cm (2in).

Repot the plug plants in trays or pots with a diameter of 8 to 13cm (3 to 5in), filled with potting soil. Place them in a warm and bright place. Water regularly.

For planting in open ground, space the plants 40cm (16in) apart in all directions. Dig a hole and place a layer of gravel at the bottom to facilitate drainage. Cover with a little soil, place the plant, and cover with fine soil. Press down and water to keep the soil moist.

Protect the base from winter frosts.

In a pot

Place a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot to facilitate drainage. Fill it with a mixture of potting soil, sand and compost. Place the plug plant very delicately, cover with soil, and press down well. Water to keep the soil moist. Place your pot in a sunny spot and bring it indoors before winter frosts.

Cultivation

Trim the flowers to promote foliage development. Pinch the young plants to encourage branching. Water very moderately, mainly in case of drought, as tarragon is sensitive to excess moisture. At the end of winter, cut the dry stems and trim the clumps.

Tarragon can be propagated by dividing the clumps in spring. This operation is recommended every 3 years or so.