How to Propogate Tarragon Plant the Right Way

Tarragon is a popular herb known for its distinct anise-like flavor and aroma. It is commonly used in French cuisine and adds a unique touch to various dishes. If you are a fan of tarragon and want to have an endless supply of this flavorful herb, propagating tarragon plants is a great way to achieve that. In this article, we will guide you through the process of propagating tarragon plants the right way.

Why Propagate Tarragon?

There are several reasons why propagating tarragon plants can be beneficial. Firstly, tarragon can be quite expensive to buy from the store regularly. By propagating your own plants, you can save money in the long run. Additionally, propagating tarragon allows you to ensure the quality of the plant and its growing conditions, giving you control over its organic cultivation.

Propagation Methods

There are three primary methods for propagating tarragon: division, cuttings, and seeds.

Division

Division is the most common method used to propagate tarragon plants. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Start by selecting a healthy mother plant that is at least two years old. The best time for division is in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant.
2. Carefully remove the plant from its pot or dig it up from the garden bed. Gently shake off excess soil to expose the root system.
3. Using a sharp knife or garden shears, divide the root ball into several sections. Each section should have several stems and a healthy root system.
4. Replant each divided section in its desired location, ensuring it receives ample sunlight and well-draining soil.

Cuttings

Propagating tarragon through cuttings is another effective method. Follow these steps to propagate tarragon using cuttings:

1. Select a healthy stem from the mother plant. It should be around 4-6 inches long and free from any diseases or pests.
2. Using a sharp, sterile knife or pruners, cut the stem just below a leaf node. A leaf node is where the leaf attaches to the stem.
3. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few sets of leaves at the top.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone to promote root development.
5. Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix and make a small hole with your finger or a pencil.
6. Insert the cutting into the hole and gently press the soil around it to secure it in place.
7. Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
8. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged and provide misting to maintain humidity around the cutting.

Seeds

While propagating tarragon from seeds is possible, it is not the preferred method as tarragon seeds are often sterile or produce plants with inferior flavor compared to their parent plant. However, if you want to give it a try, here’s what you need to do:

1. Start by purchasing fresh tarragon seeds from a reputable source.
2. Fill a seed tray or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
3. Sow the tarragon seeds on top of the soil, lightly covering them with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine soil.
4. Mist the soil surface with water to moisten it and cover the tray or pots with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse-like environment.
5. Place the tray or pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
6. Keep the soil consistently moist by watering from below to prevent disturbing the seeds.
7. Germination may take anywhere from two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots or the garden bed.

Care Tips for Propagated Tarragon Plants

After successfully propagating tarragon plants, it is crucial to provide them with proper care to ensure their healthy growth. Here are some care tips to follow:

• Sunlight and Soil: Tarragon plants thrive in full sun or partial shade. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining, loose, and fertile.
• Watering: Tarragon prefers slightly dry conditions. Water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to provide essential nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can negatively impact flavor.
• Pruning: Regularly prune your tarragon plants to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Harvesting the leaves frequently will also promote new growth.
• Pests and Diseases: Tarragon is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases. Use organic pest control methods if necessary.

By following the propagation methods and care tips mentioned above, you can successfully propagate tarragon plants and enjoy a continuous supply of this flavorful herb. Whether you choose division, cuttings, or seeds, remember that patience and proper care are key to the success of your propagated tarragon plants. Happy propagating!