What's the optimal time for planting tarragon?

Tarragon requires timing to establish well. It is from the Mediterranean region and is prone to cold soil and frost exposure. I lost the first tarragon plants I tried to grow in the spring when I didn't understand their temperature requirements. Good timing prevents damage and loss of rooting.

Spring planting has to wait until soil temperatures are over 50°F (10°C). This usually happens after your area's last frost date, which for many places occurs somewhere between April and June. Use a soil thermometer for precision. I monitor at a depth of 4 inches for three consecutive mornings before an intended planting date.

For fall planting, finish 8+ weeks in advance of the first frost. This allows roots to firm up before dormancy. In zones 7-10, September gives the optimum conditions for fall planting in this region. I prepare holes during the summer heat, allowing the soil to cool sooner once fall transplants are in place.

Do not plant in summer when very hot outside, as temperatures greater than 90°F (32°C) can cause transplant shock. If necessary, shade cloth can be used to help the plants through a deep watering. In my Southern garden, plantings in late summer can only be successful if they occur in protective structures.

Select locations with sandy loam soil and good drainage. Incorporate some compost into the top 8 inches of soil. Allow a space of 18 - 24 inches. After planting without fertilizer, thoroughly water the sites. My best tarragon came from questionable soil that had only had standing leaves.

Read the full article: How to Grow Tarragon: A Complete Guide