When to Plant Tarragon in Vermilion County, IL
French tarragon is a perennial herb with slender leaves and a distinctive anise-like flavor essential in French cooking. It does not produce viable seed and must be propagated vegetatively.
Vermilion County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 1,218 feet, Vermilion County receives approximately 31.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Tarragon during the growing season.
Vermilion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Tarragon Planting Timeline — Vermilion County, IL
Tarragon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 5 |
| Harvest | June 23 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
185 days
Growing Tips for Vermilion County
Purchase plants or divisions as French tarragon does not grow true from seed. Plant in well-drained soil. Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. Harvest tips regularly for best flavor.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Tarragon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Tarragon in Vermilion County, IL?
Vermilion County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Tarragon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Vermilion County, IL?
Vermilion County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Vermilion County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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