When to Plant Tarragon in Starr County, TX
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.
Starr County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 3 and the first fall frost is December 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 316 days.
At an elevation of 2,451 feet, Starr County receives approximately 55.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 98°F, so Tarragon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Tarragon root diseases.
Starr County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.5
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.
Soil Compatibility in Starr County
How your county's soil matches Tarragon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.8–7.5) is within Tarragon's preferred range (6.0–7.5).
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Starr County is excellent for Tarragon — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.1%). Annual compost additions will help Tarragon.
How to Plant Tarragon
Succession Planting Tarragon
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 17 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Tarragon
Tarragon needs approximately 0.4 inches of water per week (1.7" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Tarragon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 1.7" | 1.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Mar | 1.7" | 3.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 1.7" | 6.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 1.7" | 8.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 1.7" | 7.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 1.7" | 7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 1.7" | 6.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 1.7" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 1.7" | 4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 1.7" | 1.6" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 1.7" | 1.6" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Starr County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Tarragon Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Tarragon Planting Timeline — Starr County, TX
Tarragon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 10 | Feb 10 – Feb 24 |
| Harvest | April 14 | Apr 14 – Jun 23 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.4"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: ideal
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
316 days in Starr County
Growing Tips for Tarragon in Starr County
Direct sow Tarragon outdoors after February 03 in Starr County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 98°F in Starr County, provide afternoon shade for Tarragon and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Tarragon in this region include aphids and slugs. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
With 55" of annual rainfall in Starr County, ensure good drainage for Tarragon — excess moisture can promote root rot and fungal diseases.
General growing tips
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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Tarragon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Tarragon in Starr County, TX?
Starr County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 3. Plan your Tarragon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Starr County, TX?
Starr County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 3 and first fall frost is December 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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