Home › French Tarragon › Grow in Michigan

Can You Grow French Tarragon in Michigan?

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

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–90 days

When to plant French Tarragons in Michigan

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jul 6

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan'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 Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.