Tarragon Companion Plants: A Guide to Growing and Pairing with Other Vegetables and Herbs

If you're a fan of tarragon, you might want to consider growing it with companion plants. Companion planting is an ancient method of gardening that involves pairing certain plants together to benefit each other's growth and repel pests. In this blog post, we'll explore the world of tarragon companion plants and how they can help you grow a successful garden.

The Benefits of Tarragon Companion Plants

Companion planting has numerous benefits, including improved soil fertility, pest control, and increased yields. When grown together, tarragon and its companion plants can improve each other's growth and flavor.

Improved Soil Fertility

Tarragon is a heavy feeder, meaning it requires a lot of nutrients to grow properly. By planting tarragon with nitrogen-fixing plants like beans or peas, you can help restore the soil's nitrogen levels naturally.

Pest Control

Growing tarragon alongside pest-repelling plants like marigolds or basil can help protect it from common garden pests like aphids and spider mites.

Increased Yields

Pairing tarragon with other herbs like parsley or chives can help stimulate growth and increase overall yield.

Companion Plants for Tarragon

Now that we've explored the benefits of companion planting, let's take a look at some of the best companion plants for tarragon.

1. Basil

Basil is an excellent companion plant for tarragon because it helps repel harmful insects like mosquitoes and flies while also enhancing the flavor of nearby herbs.

How to Plant:

Plant basil around the perimeter of your tarragon bed, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

Tips:

Be sure to keep an eye on your basil plants, as they can quickly overtake your garden if left unchecked.

2. Chives

Chives are another great companion plant for tarragon because they help repel pests while also enhancing the flavor of nearby herbs.

How to Plant:

Plant chives near your tarragon bed, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

Tips:

Chives are relatively easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. Be sure to cut them back regularly to encourage new growth.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular choice for companion planting because they help repel harmful insects like aphids and spider mites.

How to Plant:

Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tarragon bed, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

Tips:

Be sure to deadhead your marigold flowers regularly to encourage new growth and prevent disease.

4. Parsley

Parsley is an excellent companion plant for tarragon because it helps stimulate growth and increase overall yield.

How to Plant:

Plant parsley near your tarragon bed, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

Tips:

Parsley prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Be sure to prune regularly to encourage new growth.

5. Peas

Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants that can help improve soil fertility and provide support for your tarragon plants.

How to Plant:

Plant peas around the perimeter of your tarragon bed, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

Tips:

Be sure to provide trellises or other support structures for your pea plants to prevent them from falling over.

Companion planting with tarragon can be a great way to improve your garden's growth and flavor. When paired with the right plants, tarragon can thrive and produce bountiful yields.

FAQs

1. Can tarragon be planted with other herbs?

Yes, tarragon can be planted with other herbs like parsley, chives, and basil to enhance flavor and increase overall yield.

2. What are some common pests that can affect tarragon?

Common pests that can affect tarragon include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.

3. How often should I water my tarragon plants?

Tarragon plants prefer well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Aim to keep the soil moist but not saturated.

4. Do I need to fertilize my tarragon plants?

Tarragon is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to grow properly. Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

5. What is companion planting?

Companion planting is an ancient method of gardening that involves pairing certain plants together to benefit each other's growth and repel pests.