The Complete Guide to How to Grow Chamomile

Learn how to grow chamomile with our comprehensive guide! Discover step-by-step instructions, FAQs, and expert tips to cultivate this aromatic herb in your garden.

Are you ready to add a touch of tranquility to your garden? Look no further than chamomile! 

Known for its delicate flowers and soothing aroma, chamomile is a versatile herb that’s easy to grow at home. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can tolerate a range of growing conditions. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, our ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cultivate this fragrant herb in your own backyard.

Chamomile is a delightful addition to herb gardens, offering not only beauty but also a range of medicinal and culinary benefits. 

From herbal remedies like calming teas to soothing skincare products, chamomile has been cherished for centuries for its versatility and therapeutic properties. 

How to Grow Chamomile From Seed

Planting chamomile seeds is relatively simple and can be done directly in the garden or started indoors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plant chamomile seeds:

• Select high-quality chamomile seeds from a reputable supplier. There are two kinds  of chamomile: German chamomile seeds (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Decide which variety you want to grow based on your preferences and growing conditions.
• Chamomile prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Loamy or sandy loam soil works best for this herb. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.
• If planting directly in the garden, sow chamomile seeds outdoors after the last expected frost date in your area. Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Loosen the soil to a depth of 1-2 inches and scatter the seeds over the prepared area. Lightly press the seeds into the soil and water gently.
• Alternatively, you can start chamomile seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds in seed trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix. Sow seeds thinly and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the trays in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights.
• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged while seeds are germinating. Chamomile seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 6-12 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and prevent overcrowding.
• If you started seeds indoors, transplant young chamomile plants into the garden after the danger of frost has passed and seedlings have developed at least two sets of true leaves. Harden off seedlings by gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions before planting.
• Water chamomile plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. Apply a layer of organic mulch around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature.

How to Grow Chamomile in a Pot

Growing chamomile in a pot is a great option for those with limited space or who prefer container gardening. Here’s how to do it:

• Select a pot or container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes at the bottom. Terra cotta or ceramic pots work well as they allow for air circulation and water drainage.
• Decide whether you want to grow German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Both varieties can be grown in containers, but Roman chamomile tends to be lower-growing and is often used as a ground cover.
• Use a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid using garden soil, as it may become compacted in containers and hinder root growth. Fill the container with soil, leaving a few inches of space at the top for watering.
• If starting from seed, sow chamomile seeds evenly across the soil surface and cover lightly with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to moisten the soil. If using transplants, gently remove the plant from its nursery container and place it in the center of the pot. Fill in any gaps with additional potting mix and water thoroughly.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the chamomile plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to prevent water from splashing onto the leaves, which can cause fungal diseases.

When to Plant Chamomile

Chamomile is typically planted in the spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. 

The exact timing can vary depending on your location and climate, but aim to plant chamomile seeds or seedlings with an optimal temperature that consistently reach around 50 to 75°F. In most regions, this falls between the early spring around late March and early summer. 

What to Plant with Chamomile

Chamomile pairs well with a variety of companion plants in the garden. 

Options include lavender, mint, borage, calendula, dill, yarrow, and thyme. 

These plants not only complement chamomile aesthetically but also provide benefits such as attracting pollinators, deterring pests, improving soil health, and enhancing flavor in culinary dishes. 

When selecting a companion plant, consider their growing requirements and compatibility with chamomile to create a harmonious and productive garden.

When Do You Harvest Chamomile

The white flowers of Chamomile are typically harvested when they are in full bloom, which usually occurs in the morning. This is when the flowers contain the highest concentration of essential oils, giving them their characteristic aroma and flavor. 

To harvest the edible flowers, simply pinch or snip off the flower heads with scissors or your fingers, leaving a portion of the stem attached. 

The best time to harvest chamomile flowers on a dry day when the dew has evaporated but before the sun becomes too hot, as this helps preserve the quality of the flowers. 

Once harvested, chamomile flowers can be used fresh or dried for later use in teas, infusions, or other herbal preparations.

FAQs about How to Grow Chamomile

What type of soil does chamomile prefer?

Chamomile thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Sandy loam or loamy soil is ideal for promoting healthy root growth and preventing waterlogging.

Does chamomile like sun or shade?

Chamomile generally prefers full sun, meaning it thrives when exposed to at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in regions with hot summers, chamomile may benefit from partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting and sunburn. Overall, providing chamomile with a sunny location ensures optimal growth, flowering, and fragrance production.

How long does chamomile take to grow?

Chamomile typically takes about 6 to 8 weeks to grow from seed to harvestable plant under optimal growing conditions. However, the exact time can vary depending on factors such as temperature, soil quality, and sunlight exposure. 

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) tends to grow more quickly than the Roman variety (Chamaemelum nobile), with seedlings often emerging within 7 to 14 days after planting. 

Once established, chamomile plants will continue to grow and produce flowers throughout the growing season, typically from spring to fall. Regular harvesting of the flowers encourages continued blooming and ensures a fresh supply for herbal preparations.

How tall does chamomile grow?

German chamomile typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches, forming bushy plants with delicate foliage and daisy-like flowers. Roman chamomile, on the other hand, is a low-growing herb that reaches a height of 6 to 12 inches and spreads outward to form a dense mat of foliage, making it ideal as a ground cover. These height ranges can vary depending on growing conditions, but both varieties are relatively compact and well-suited for small gardens or containers.

Is chamomile perennial?

Yes, chamomile can be both an annual plant and a perennial, depending on the type of chamomile. 

German Chamomile – This variety is typically grown as an annual. It self-seeds readily and often behaves as a short-lived perennial in milder climates. It grows as a bushy plant with delicate, fern-like foliage and produces daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers.

Roman Chamomile – Roman chamomile is a perennial herb that forms a low-growing mat of foliage. It is often used as a ground cover or in pathways. Roman chamomile has small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers and tends to be less aggressive than German chamomile.

Both varieties of chamomile prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. With proper care, Roman chamomile can return for the next growing season, while German chamomile may reseed itself and return as a perennial in favorable growing conditions.

Tips for Growing Chamomile

• Start from Seed: Chamomile is best grown from seed rather than transplants. Direct sow seeds in the garden after the last frost date or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting.
• Water Consistently: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during the germination period. Once established, chamomile is relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry spells.
• Harvest Flowers Regularly: Harvest chamomile flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming and prevent self-seeding. Pick flowers in the morning when the oils are most concentrated for the best flavor and aroma.
• Prune and Deadhead: Remove spent flowers and trim back leggy growth to promote bushier plants and prolong the blooming season.
• Mulch and Fertilize: Apply a layer of organic mulch around chamomile plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid heavy fertilization, as chamomile prefers nutrient-poor soil.

By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy and vibrant chamomile plants in your garden. Whether you’re sipping on a soothing cup of chamomile tea or adding dried flowers to your homemade skincare products, you’ll appreciate the beauty and benefits of this beloved herb. Happy gardening!