What To Know
- Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, increasing the time gradually.
- While Mexican tarragon doesn’t require heavy fertilization, a light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth.
- Add a few sprigs of Mexican tarragon to your favorite soups and stews for a subtle, anise-like flavor.
Learning how to grow Mexican tarragon is a rewarding journey for any gardener, especially those who appreciate the unique, anise-like flavor it brings to dishes. Unlike its European cousin, French tarragon, Mexican tarragon is easy to grow from seed, making it accessible to even novice gardeners. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right location and soil to harvesting and enjoying your fresh herbs.
Understanding Mexican Tarragon: A Distinctive Herb
Mexican tarragon (Tagetes lucida) is a perennial herb native to Mexico and Central America. It’s a member of the marigold family and boasts a distinct, pungent aroma reminiscent of licorice and anise. This makes it a popular choice for adding a unique flavor to dishes like soups, stews, salsas, and even cocktails.
Choosing the Right Location and Soil
Mexican tarragon thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. It prefers a soil that’s rich in organic matter and has a slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 7.0). If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter to improve its structure.
Propagation: Starting from Seed
Mexican tarragon is easily propagated from seed. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Start seeds indoors: Sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Use seed trays or small pots filled with a seed starting mix.
2. Plant seeds: Place 1-2 seeds in each cell or pot, cover lightly with soil, and water gently.
3. Provide warmth and light: Keep the seed trays or pots in a warm, bright location. A heat mat can help maintain the optimal temperature for germination.
4. Thin seedlings: Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, thin them to the strongest seedling per cell or pot.
5. Hardening off: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, increasing the time gradually.
Transplanting and Spacing
Once the threat of frost has passed, your Mexican tarragon seedlings are ready to be transplanted outdoors.
1. Prepare the planting site: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole about twice the size of the seedling’s root ball.
2. Transplant: Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
3. Water well: Water the newly planted seedlings thoroughly.
4. Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and prevent disease.
Watering and Care
Mexican tarragon is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but it’s important to water it regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Aim for deep watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing
While Mexican tarragon doesn‘t require heavy fertilization, a light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flavor.
Harvesting and Storage
Harvest Mexican tarragon leaves as needed throughout the growing season. Snip off the leaves just above a set of leaves to encourage bushier growth. You can use the leaves fresh or dry them for later use.
To dry Mexican tarragon:
1. Gather leaves: Harvest leaves on a dry day when they are free of moisture.
2. Bundle leaves: Tie leaves together in small bundles.
3. Hang to dry: Hang bundles upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area.
4. Store dried leaves: Once leaves are completely dry, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Enjoying the Harvest: Culinary Uses
Mexican tarragon’s distinctive anise-like flavor adds a unique touch to a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Soups and stews: Add a few sprigs of Mexican tarragon to your favorite soups and stews for a subtle, anise-like flavor.
- Salsas: Chop fresh Mexican tarragon leaves and add them to your favorite salsa recipe for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Marinades: Use Mexican tarragon in marinades for grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.
- Cocktails: Add a sprig of Mexican tarragon to your favorite cocktails for a unique, aromatic twist.
Enjoying the Benefits: More Than Just Flavor
Beyond its culinary uses, Mexican tarragon offers several benefits:
- Attracts pollinators: The bright yellow flowers of Mexican tarragon attract butterflies and other beneficial insects to your garden.
- Repels pests: The strong aroma of Mexican tarragon can help deter pests like aphids and whiteflies.
- Medicinal properties: Mexican tarragon is known for its potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
The End of the Journey: A Bountiful Harvest
Growing Mexican tarragon is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the unique flavor and benefits of this versatile herb. From its ease of propagation to its attractive flowers and pest-repelling properties, Mexican tarragon offers a unique addition to any garden.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I grow Mexican tarragon in pots?
A: Yes, Mexican tarragon can be successfully grown in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and ensure it has good drainage.
Q: How long does Mexican tarragon take to grow?
A: Mexican tarragon can be harvested within 6-8 weeks after planting. It will continue to produce leaves throughout the growing season.
Q: Can I overwinter Mexican tarragon in colder climates?
A: Mexican tarragon is a perennial, but it may not survive harsh winters in colder climates. You can try bringing it indoors or protecting it with a thick layer of mulch.
Q: How do I prevent Mexican tarragon from becoming too woody?
A: To prevent Mexican tarragon from becoming woody, harvest leaves regularly and pinch back any stems that are getting too long.
Q: Can I use Mexican tarragon as a substitute for French tarragon?
A: While Mexican tarragon has a similar flavor profile to French tarragon, it is not a direct substitute. French tarragon has a more subtle, peppery flavor, while Mexican tarragon has a stronger, more anise-like flavor.
