Home › French Tarragon › Grow in Illinois

Can You Grow French Tarragon in Illinois?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–90 days

When to plant French Tarragons in Illinois

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jul 6

Dates are approximate, based on Illinois'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 Illinois

Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.