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.