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Pruning guide · Herb
Mexican tarragon: when and how to prune
Tagetes lucida
Mexican tarragon is best pruned in April–July.
| Pruning months | April–July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | September–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Mexican tarragon: when to prune it?
Light pruning from May to July: pinch out the tips and harvest regularly. Cut an overwintered plant back in April.
What else to prune in those months? April · May · June · July
Mexican tarragon: how to prune it?
- Pinch the tips of young plants out just above a pair of leaves: this gives more side shoots.
- Harvest with a sharp knife or scissors, taking part of a shoot each time.
- Cut overwintered plants back to about 15 cm in April.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Mexican tarragon flowers in September–October, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Never harvest more than a third of the plant at once, so it can keep growing.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Mexican tarragon · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.