How to grow tarragon in a raised bed

French tarragon is the aniseed-flavoured herb behind a good béarnaise — a refined perennial worth a spot in any raised bed. Always grow French tarragon from a plant, not seed, for the real flavour.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Spacing: 45–60 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth; good drainage
• Time to harvest: pick once established

When to plant: Tarragon is a perennial — plant from a division or cutting in spring (true French tarragon doesn't come true from seed). It dies back in winter and reshoots. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into free-draining mix — it hates wet feet, which a raised bed avoids. Divide clumps every few years to keep them vigorous.

Watering and feeding: Water to establish, then moderately; good drainage matters more than frequent water.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

Common problems: the main one to watch is powdery mildew and rust, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

Companion plants: Give it a spot of its own; it grows near most vegetables happily. See our companion planting guide.

Harvest and storage: Snip sprigs through the growing season; the flavour fades when dried, so use it fresh or preserve it in vinegar.

More growing guides: chervil, sage and thyme.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.