Tara's gone

The word "tarragon" reminds The Frugal Gardener of "Gone with the Wind", except that Scarlett saved Tara the plantation.

Eating tarragon is one of spring's delights. Chef Hubby uses it to season steak and fish. The herb is most famous as a bearnaise sauce ingredient. We've also made tarragon vinegar. Tarragon's flavor is best early in its growing season. Its taste becomes stronger in the heat.

The Frugal Gardener was surprised to see tarragon seeds in the local garden center this spring. I had thought tarragon only grew through cuttings. I learned that tarragon comes in two varieties: French and Russian. French tarragon is the better-tasting variety and is only propagated through cuttings. The less-desirable Russian tarragon can be grown from seeds.

Tarragon wants to be divided every few years, so I share ours with friends.

Tarragon has medicinal uses as well. Chewing tarragon leaves apparently eases oral pain. Tarragon leaves also possess infection-fighting properties. Perhaps the Frugal Gardener will use a leaf as a temporary bandage the next time she cuts herself while gardening!

Ironically, tarragon is a member of the same botanical family as dandelion. The herb has some nasty relatives! Oh, well, don't we all!