Tarragon
Premium culinary herb known as 'King of Herbs' in French cuisine. Exceptional export demand to Europe with bulk prices reaching KES 1,500 per kg.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Cool to temperate climate preferred
- Highland areas ideal
- Temperature 15-25°C
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 3-4 months from planting to harvest
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Planting Materials Per 0.25 acre | 20,000 |
Soil Preparation Per 0.25 acre | 30,000 |
Organic Inputs Per 0.25 acre | 25,000 |
Mulching Materials Per 0.25 acre | 15,000 |
Tools & Equipment One-time | 18,000 |
Processing Setup One-time | 35,000 |
Marketing & Certification One-time | 40,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 183,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
500-750 kg fresh leaves per 0.25 acre
Price Range
KSh 800 - 1,500
Seasonality
Best quality in cool seasons, year-round with proper management
Common Challenges
Market Education
Limited awareness among local chefs and consumers about tarragon's culinary applications
SOLUTIONS
- •Chef workshops and cooking demonstrations
- •Recipe development partnerships
- •Food blogger collaborations
- •Restaurant tasting sessions
Propagation Complexity
French tarragon doesn't produce viable seeds, requiring vegetative propagation only
SOLUTIONS
- •Master root division techniques
- •Maintain mother plant stock
- •Learn cutting propagation
- •Partner with experienced growers
Seasonal Quality Variation
Heat stress in hot weather reduces essential oil content and flavor quality
SOLUTIONS
- •Seasonal planting schedules
- •Shade structures during hot periods
- •Highland cultivation
- •Cool storage facilities
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Export Companies
Price: KSh 1200-1500 per kg
Requirements: Premium quality, GAP certification, Large volumes, Consistent supply
Upscale Restaurants
Price: KSh 1000-1400 per kg
Requirements: Fresh quality, Aromatic potency, Consistent supply, Proper handling
Gourmet Food Stores
Price: KSh 900-1300 per kg
Requirements: Premium packaging, Quality certification, Regular supply, Brand consistency
Hotels & Catering
Price: KSh 800-1200 per kg
Requirements: Bulk supply, Competitive pricing, Fresh quality, Food safety compliance
Herb Processors
Price: KSh 700-1000 per kg
Requirements: Large volumes, Consistent quality, Processing contracts, Competitive pricing
Value Addition Opportunities
Dried Tarragon Premium Packaging
Potential Return: 400-600% markup
Investment: Low
Tarragon Vinegar & Infusions
Potential Return: 600-800% markup
Investment: Low
Essential Oil Extraction
Potential Return: 800-1200% markup
Investment: Medium
Plan Your Tarragon Project
Transform your knowledge into action with these practical next steps
Step 1: Assess Resources
Evaluate your land, water access, initial capital, and labor availability before starting your tarragon farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your tarragon farm.
Step 3: Implementation Timeline
Create a schedule for land preparation, planting, maintenance, and harvesting to align with optimal growing seasons.
Unlock Your Farm's Potential
Take the next step. Get expert guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals for growing Tarragon.