Tarragon

divider

Kitchen gardening

Tarragon

Tarragon is also known as “dragon’s herb”, due to an ancient belief that it could be used to treat the bites of “venomous beasts”. It is a perennial herb that grows between 12 and 15cm tall and produces small yellow flowers. It is one of the most mineral-rich herbs, being a good source of vitamins A and C, iodine, potassium and essential oils.

Planting Tips :

  • Tarragon thrives in deeply dug, well-composted soil in a sunny position.
  • Water the seeds deeply once a week (twice a week  in very warm weather).
  • Tarragon dies down in winter. At this stage, you can cut it down to ground level, cover it with a layer of compost and water well. In early spring you’ll see the first new shoots emerging.

Uses :

  • Tarragon is widely used in alternative medicine as it has anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-oxidant properties.
  • Freshly chopped tarragon adds wonderful flavour to salads, stir fries, mashed potatoes and pasta.
  • Make your own tarragon vinegar by steeping the herb in white grape vinegar for ten days (add fresh tarragon sprigs every few days). It makes a wonderful salad dressing.

Shop online

divider