Chamomile. Not just a pretty flower, but a small powerhouse of relaxation. If you’ve ever brewed yourself a cup of chamomile tea, you’ve probably felt that instant calm wash over you—like a soft blanket for your brain. The tiny white flowers with their sunny yellow centers are like nature’s little aspirin, offering relief from everything from stress to stomach aches.
Chamomile plants are low maintenance, so if you’re not the greenest thumb in the garden, don’t sweat it—these hardy little guys thrive even in poor soil and can handle a bit of neglect. They bloom in the summer, and once they do, you can harvest those delicate flowers to dry out and keep your supply of soothing tea going all year long.
Plus, growing chamomile is a win for your garden. Their gentle scent attracts pollinators, and they make for a lovely, understated addition to any patch of land. But don’t forget, while chamomile loves sun, it’s also a fan of well-drained soil and a little attention during its first growing season—water, love, and maybe a few kind words to help it find its feet.
And if you’re into wellness? Well, chamomile’s got your back. From calming your mind to promoting sleep, it’s a quiet overachiever with a whole list of benefits that make it worth having around.
How to Grow Chamomile
Growing chamomile is a simple and rewarding gardening activity, especially for those who enjoy herbal teas and natural remedies. This hardy plant is easy to cultivate, requiring minimal care, and it can thrive in various conditions, making it suitable for both experienced gardeners and beginners.
Below is a guide on how to grow chamomile.
Choosing the Right Type
- German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): An annual variety that is easy to grow and is the most common for tea.
- Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): A perennial variety, often used as a ground cover due to its low-growing habit.
Planting Chamomile
- When to Plant: Plant chamomile in the spring, after the last frost, or start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- Where to Plant: Choose a sunny location, though chamomile can tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-drained and moderately fertile.
- Planting Seeds: Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them lightly. Do not cover with soil as chamomile seeds need light to germinate.
- Spacing: Space plants about 8-12 inches apart.
Growing Chamomile
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Chamomile is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
- Temperature: Chamomile grows best in cooler conditions, ideally between 60-68°F (15-20°C).
- Fertilizing: Chamomile doesn’t need heavy fertilizing. A light application of compost in the planting hole or a balanced, organic fertilizer will suffice.
Caring for Chamomile
- Weeding: Keep the area around the plants free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
- Pests: Chamomile is generally pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract aphids. Use a spray of water or insecticidal soap to remove them if necessary.
- Pruning: Regularly trim chamomile to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
Harvesting Chamomile
- When to Harvest: Harvest the flowers when they are fully open, usually in the early morning after the dew has dried. The best time is mid-summer, but you can continue to harvest throughout the growing season.
- How to Harvest: Pinch or snip the flower heads off the plant. Use a gentle touch to avoid damaging the stems.
- Drying: Spread the flowers out in a single layer on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. Turn them occasionally to ensure even drying. Once completely dry, store the flowers in an airtight container.
Using Chamomile
- Tea: The dried flowers can be used to make chamomile tea. Simply steep a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
- Other Uses: Chamomile can also be used in skincare products, potpourri, and as a natural remedy for various ailments due to its calming properties.
Chamomile Growing Zone
Chamomile is a versatile herb that can be grown in a wide range of climates. Generally, it thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 through 9. Here’s a breakdown:
- German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Grows well in Zones 4-9. It is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one year, but it often reseeds itself.
- Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): Prefers Zones 2-9. It is a perennial plant, so it will return year after year in the right conditions.
Growing Chamomile FAQ
Yes, chamomile can be grown indoors in containers. Ensure it receives plenty of sunlight by placing it near a south-facing window or using grow lights.
Chamomile can be propagated from seeds or by division. For seeds, sow them directly in the garden or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. For division, split mature plants in early spring.
Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open, usually in late morning after the dew has dried. This is when the essential oils are at their peak.
Yes, chamomile is an excellent companion plant for many herbs and vegetables. It attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control pests. Chamomile also has antifungal properties that can benefit nearby plants.
Chamomile seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. German chamomile reaches maturity in about 60-90 days, while Roman chamomile, as a perennial, will establish more slowly and return year after year.
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