Pruning guide
How to prune winter tarragon
More winter tarragon care
Pruning winter tarragon — FAQ
When should I prune winter tarragon?
Throughout the growing season; cut back after flowering. Pinch out growing tips regularly to promote bushy growth and delay bloom. When plants finish flowering, cut stems back by one-half to two-thirds to encourage a flush of fresh leafy growth.
How often does winter tarragon need pruning?
Pinch tips every 2–4 weeks; cut back once or twice per season. Winter tarragon (Tagetes filifolia, anise-scented marigold) benefits from regular pinching to stay compact and delay flowering. Once flowers appear the foliage becomes less flavorful, so pinch buds early. Cut plants back by half if they get leggy mid-season. In frost-free climates, a hard cut-back after flowering extends the plant's productive life.
How do you prune winter tarragon?
Pinch out growing tips regularly to promote bushy growth and delay bloom. When plants finish flowering, cut stems back by one-half to two-thirds to encourage a flush of fresh leafy growth.