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Can You Grow French Tarragon in Wisconsin?

US · USDA Zone 5a · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Wisconsin last frost

mid-April

Wisconsin first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–90 days

When to plant French Tarragons in Wisconsin

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jul 14

Dates are approximate, based on Wisconsin'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 Wisconsin

Wisconsin has a cold humid continental climate. Milwaukee is Zone 5b-6a; northern Wisconsin is Zone 4a-5a. Cold winters but warm productive summers. Known for dairy farming and cold-hardy crops.