Russian Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculoides) is a versatile, perennial herb. Can be grown in weaker soils. Used for falvouring vinegars, pickles, fish or white sauce; or why not try the young leaves in your summer salad. Grows up to 140 cm tall.

Sow the tarragon seeds from March onwards inside in small pots or trays on the surface of good seed compost; do not cover the seeds. And keep at a temperature of 16 Celsius and above for most successful germiantion. Germination can take up to 2 weeks.

Water the pots from the bottom, saucer required, (or use a very fine rose on your watering can) this way the fine tarragon seeds will not be disturbed during the germination.

When seedlings are large enough to handle pinch some out if too crowded. Plant them into small pots and grow on in cooler conditions before planting out. Alternatively keep a pot or two on your windowsill all year around.

After all risk of frost has passed, plant in groups into final position. The strong growing plants will produce plenty of tasty leaves. Cut them as required.