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Can You Grow French Tarragon in Alberta?

Canada · Canadian Zone 4 · zones 2, 3, 4, 5

Grows well here

French tarragon thrives as a perennial in your zone — plant once and harvest for years.

Plant zones

3a–9b

Alberta last frost

early May

Alberta first frost

early October

Days to harvest

60–90 days

When to plant French Tarragons in Alberta

Direct sow

May 1

Harvest

Jun 30 – Jul 30

Dates are approximate, based on Alberta's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About French Tarragon

French tarragon is the gourmet herb of classic French cuisine — anise-scented leaves that elevate chicken, fish, and béarnaise sauce. A perennial that comes back reliably each spring.

Buy transplants (true French tarragon does not grow true from seed — Russian tarragon is inferior). Plant in well-drained soil — root rot is the main killer. Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. Cut back to 2 inches in fall.

Full french tarragon growing guide →

Gardening in Alberta

Alberta has a dry continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Calgary and Edmonton are Zone 4-5. Intense sunshine compensates for the short season. Chinook winds bring warm spells in winter.