Growing Chamomile: A Gentle Guide for Thriving Blooms

Choosing the Right Chamomile Variety

I first grew chamomile years ago, charmed by visions of fragrant tea and abundant pollinators gracing my garden. Two main varieties caught my attention: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).

German chamomile grows taller, around 24 inches (60 cm), and offers a profusion of delicate, daisy-like blooms ideal for tea. Roman chamomile, a robust, low-growing perennial reaching about 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm), can serve as a pleasantly fragrant groundcover.

Picking the Perfect Spot and Conditions

Chamomile craves full sun, ideally six hours or more each day. Choose a bright corner with well-draining, fertile soil—rich and loamy, but never waterlogged.

Since chamomile tolerates dry conditions, overly damp ground tends to invite disease. Trust me, soggy feet always spell trouble with these delicate herbs.

Planting from Seed or Starter Plants?

I often start chamomile directly from seed, scattering lightly into loose soil after the risk of frost has passed—typically late April to May for most northern gardens. Simply press seeds gently into the earth without covering them, as chamomile requires sunlight to sprout.

If patience runs short, purchasing starter plants from a local nursery works equally well. Space young plants about 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart to accommodate their spreading habit.

Caring for Your Chamomile Garden

Watering Wisely

Water regularly when plants first establish themselves—usually every other day if dry conditions prevail. Once mature, chamomile proves surprisingly drought-tolerant and thrives with less frequent watering.

During hot spells, I provide a thorough soak once weekly, ensuring water reaches the roots deeply but allowing the surface soil to dry between drinks.

Nourishing Chamomile Plants

An annual application of well-rotted compost in spring or early summer gives chamomile all the nutrients needed to flourish throughout the growing season. Avoid heavy fertilizers; excessive nutrients promote lush foliage at the cost of fewer blossoms.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular harvesting counts as the best maintenance with chamomile. Picking blossoms encourages continual blooming, as the plant diligently replenishes what you've plucked.

"Harvest chamomile flowers frequently to boost abundant blooms and deter the plant from going prematurely to seed."

Picking and Preserving Chamomile Flowers

I harvest chamomile in early morning sunlight, once dew has evaporated but before midday heat fades the fragrant essential oils. Gently pinch or snip off flower heads, leaving stems behind for a tidier drying and better flavor infusion.

For drying, spread blossoms thinly on screens or baking trays and place them in a shaded, airy spot. Once dried fully—usually in about a week—store in airtight glass jars away from sunlight to preserve their delightful aroma.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Chamomile rarely succumbs to pest pressure or disease if grown under optimal conditions. However, aphids occasionally take fancy to tender chamomile shoots.

To discourage aphids, I spray affected plants with mild soap solution: mix 1 teaspoon (5 ml) natural soap in 1 quart (950 ml) lukewarm water. Blast gently, and the aphids retreat quickly without harming beneficial pollinators.

If powdery mildew appears, improve air circulation immediately by thinning crowded foliage. Avoid overhead watering, and chamomile typically recovers swiftly.

Chamomile's Many Garden Companions

Chamomile proves an amiable neighbor, benefiting other plants nearby. Growing chamomile alongside vegetables like cabbage, onions, or cucumbers improves overall health, likely through its subtle antifungal and antibacterial qualities.

Pairing chamomile with lavender, thyme, and sage also creates a vibrant, aromatic patch beloved by bees and butterflies—an undeniable win for both your garden's charm and biodiversity.

Growing chamomile rewards the gardener with delicate blooms, effortless grace, and a gentle scent that calms the senses. With decent sun, a bit of patience, and mindful watering, you'll be sipping homegrown tea with ease. Give these hardy beauties a patch of earth, let them flourish, and you'll find serenity in every petal. Growing chamomile pays back tenfold—in aroma, flavor, and quiet satisfaction.