Tarragon Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Tarragon, a popular herb known for its distinctive flavor, can be easily grown from seeds. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to store, sow, and germinate tarragon plant seeds successfully.

Storing Tarragon Plant Seeds

Before sowing tarragon seeds, it’s essential to ensure that they are fresh and viable. Tarragon seeds have a relatively short shelf life, so it’s crucial to store them properly to maintain their viability.

1. Harvesting Seeds: The first step in storing tarragon plant seeds is to harvest them from mature plants. Allow the flowers of the tarragon plant to dry out and turn brown. Once the flowers have dried, gently shake them to release the seeds.

2. Cleaning Seeds: After harvesting the seeds, it’s important to remove any excess chaff or debris. You can do this by gently winnowing the seeds or carefully blowing on them to remove any unwanted material.

3. Drying Seeds: Once the seeds are clean, spread them out on a paper towel or a clean, dry surface. Allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days until they are completely dry.

4. Storage Containers: Store the dried tarragon seeds in an airtight container such as a glass jar or a ziplock bag. Make sure to label the container with the date of harvest for future reference.

5. Ideal Storage Conditions: To maintain seed viability, store the container in a cool, dark place such as a refrigerator or a basement. The temperature should be around 40°F (4°C) with low humidity levels.

By following these steps for storing tarragon plant seeds, you can ensure that they remain viable for sowing in the future.

Sowing Tarragon Plant Seeds

Now that you have successfully stored your tarragon seeds, it’s time to sow them and start growing your own tarragon plants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on sowing tarragon plant seeds:

1. Timing: Tarragon seeds are best sown in early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. This will give the plants ample time to establish before the hot summer months.

2. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or a tiller. Tarragon plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility.

3. Sowing Method: Tarragon seeds are tiny, so it’s best to mix them with some sand or fine vermiculite to make them easier to handle. Sprinkle the seed mixture evenly over the prepared soil surface.

4. Light Covering: After sowing, lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. Tarragon seeds require light for germination, so avoid burying them too deep.

5. Watering: Gently water the soil after sowing to ensure it is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Use a fine mist or a watering can with a rose attachment to avoid displacing the seeds.

6. Germination Time: Tarragon seeds typically germinate within 10-14 days when provided with suitable conditions, including consistent moisture and warmth.

By following these steps, you can successfully sow your tarragon plant seeds and initiate the germination process.

Germinating Tarragon Plant Seeds

Once you’ve sown your tarragon plant seeds, it’s important to provide them with optimal conditions for germination. Here are some essential tips to ensure successful germination:

1. Temperature: Tarragon seeds germinate best at temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C). You can use a heating mat or place the seed tray in a warm location to maintain the desired temperature.

2. Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination process. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases. Mist the soil surface lightly if it starts to dry out.

3. Lighting: Tarragon seeds require light for germination. Place the seed tray in a well-lit area or provide supplemental light using fluorescent grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

4. Transplanting: Once the tarragon seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plants receive full sun to partial shade.

By following these guidelines for germinating tarragon plant seeds, you’ll soon be able to enjoy fresh tarragon leaves from your own garden.

In conclusion, growing tarragon from seeds is a rewarding and relatively straightforward process. By properly storing, sowing, and germinating tarragon plant seeds, you can successfully cultivate this flavorful herb in your garden or even in containers on your balcony or windowsill. Happy gardening!