Russian Tarragon Seeds
Tarragon is originally native to Siberia, in Russia, which makes it quite a hardy perennial herb. First used as food flavouring by the Italians during the 13th century, it was most likely brought by the invading Mongols who were using it as a sleep aid, breath freshener and seasoning. Its cultivation quickly spread to France and the Arab countries, where it is now used in traditional cuisine.
Russian tarragon grows to 18-36’’ tall and has a mild aromatic flavour, slightly reminiscent of anise. Russian tarragon will grow taller and more impressively than the French variety. A more splendid plant to behold in the landscape, Russian tarragon does not contain the potent flavour and culinary value of French tarragon. But it still may be used to delicately flavour pickles or sauces.
- Latin Name: Artemisia dracunculus
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Days to Maturity: 90
- Planting Depth: 5 mm
- Plant Spacing: 45-60 cm
- Growth Habit: 40-70 cm tall
GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
Start seeds indoors in late winter. Sow plenty to account for low germination rates. Gently press seeds into the soil to get good contact and cover lightly. Mist well to dampen the soil and seed.
Light exposure is more important than warmth in the initial growing phase. Use grow lights or place the starts on a sunny windowsill. Sprouts should pop up in about 2 weeks.
Tarragon doesn’t need exceptionally rich soil to grow well, but it does require soil that drains well and proper air flow. It will also grow best in a location that receives full sun. Transplant seedlings outside when they reach about 10 cm in height. Space plants about 45-60 cm apart.
Bring tarragon plants into a cool sheltered place for the winter, or harvest all the leaves and cover with a heavy mulch to protect it until next spring.
QUICK FACTS
- Tarragon is a popular ingredient in the fabrication of soaps for its subtle tones of sweet-grass, pepper scent and earthy aromas.
- Tarragon can be used fresh or dried in many cuisines, or as an ornamental plant that also makes a really nice decoration for bouquet arrangements.
- Tarragon seeds will remain viable for 2 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.
OUR SEED GUARANTEE
You know that a lush, fruitful garden needs good soil, frequent watering, and sunlight to grow, but it’s the seeds that really make the harvest.
Picked and bagged for 2024 the vast majority of our seeds have germination rates of over 85%. The seeds are all-natural, non-GMO, non-hybrid, untreated, and open-pollinated for seed saving.
We have put a lot of thoughts into the design and packaging of our seed packets. Our seeds are all carefully packed in food grade kraft paper/aluminium zipper lock bags, and then are shipped in eco-friendly padded mailers.
We heat-seal each of our seed packet for even more protection from moisture, odour and light, allowing you to store your seeds for up to 3x longer than paper or plastic. Plant them all, germinate some indoors, save some for next season - it’s up to you!