Troubleshooting
Winter Tarragon problems — and how to fix them
Winter Tarragon (Tagetes filifolia) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leggy growth in low light
Insufficient sun stretches the stems and thins the lacy foliage. Give full sun or supplemental grow lighting to keep it dense and fragrant.
Root rot in wet soil
Cold, soggy soil rots the roots. Use a free-draining mix and let the surface dry before watering again.
Cold and frost damage
This tender plant is killed by frost. Bring it indoors or grow as an annual where winters dip below about 5°C.
Spider mites in dry, warm conditions
Hot, dry indoor air invites spider mites on the fine foliage. Check leaf undersides for webbing and rinse or treat with insecticidal soap.
Prevent winter tarragon problems before they start
Most winter tarragon issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for winter tarragon in general rather than its problems? Read the full winter tarragon care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Winter Tarragon problems — FAQ
Why is my winter tarragon leggy growth in low light?
Insufficient sun stretches the stems and thins the lacy foliage. Give full sun or supplemental grow lighting to keep it dense and fragrant.
Why is my winter tarragon root rot in wet soil?
Cold, soggy soil rots the roots. Use a free-draining mix and let the surface dry before watering again.
Why is my winter tarragon cold and frost damage?
This tender plant is killed by frost. Bring it indoors or grow as an annual where winters dip below about 5°C.
Why is my winter tarragon spider mites in dry, warm conditions?
Hot, dry indoor air invites spider mites on the fine foliage. Check leaf undersides for webbing and rinse or treat with insecticidal soap.