Fertilizer for Tarragon: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Tarragon, particularly French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa), is a light feeder that produces the most flavorful leaves in lean, well-drained soil. The University of Illinois Extension notes that excessive fertilization dilutes the essential oils that give French tarragon its distinctive anise flavor. French tarragon must be propagated by division, not seed; any tarragon seed sold is the inferior Russian variety with much less flavor.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Tarragon?
The recommended NPK ratio for tarragon is 5-5-5. A balanced 5-5-5 feeds all three macronutrients equally, which works well when soil tests show no single deficiency.
Tarragon NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Light balanced formula for new divisions during the Seedling phase, then french tarragon rarely flowers; maintain light feeding once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Tarragon
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 5N 5P 5K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 5% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 5% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Light balanced formula for new divisions |
| Vegetative | 5N 5P 5K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 5% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 5% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Gentle feeding during active spring growth |
| Flowering | 5N 5P 5K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 5% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 5% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | French tarragon rarely flowers; maintain light feeding |
| Fruiting | 0N 0P 0K N 0% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 0% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 0% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Reduce feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy |
When Should You Fertilize Tarragon?
In zone 4, start fertilizing tarragon in May. In zone 8, begin as early as March. Apply every 8 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Tarragon?
Tarragon grows in USDA zones 4 through 8, spanning a 5-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 4 | May |
| Zone 5 | April |
| Zone 6 | April |
| Zone 7 | March |
| Zone 8 | March |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Tarragon?
Look for products with an NPK close to 5-5-5. Espoma Plant-tone is the most popular choice among home gardeners for tarragon.
- Espoma Plant-tone
- Dr. Earth Herb
- 5-5-5 organic
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Container and Raised Bed Adjustments for Tarragon
Grows well in 5+ gallon containers; feed every 6 weeks with diluted organic liquid fertilizer
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Tarragon
- Over-fertilizing, which produces abundant but bland-tasting tarragon with reduced essential oil content.
- Growing Russian tarragon from seed expecting French tarragon flavor; they are vastly different.
- Mulching heavily around the crown, which traps moisture and causes root and crown rot.
- Overwatering, especially in winter; tarragon's number one killer is wet feet in cold soil.
Tips for Fertilizing Tarragon
- Feed very lightly; rich soil produces bigger plants but with much less flavor.
- Ensure excellent drainage; tarragon roots rot quickly in wet soil regardless of fertility.
- French tarragon cannot be grown from seed; it must be propagated by division or cuttings.
- Divide plants every 3 years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent woody centers.
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Tarragon
Sources
Source:University of Illinois ExtensionLast updated: