How To Grow Chamomile
Updated on
June 5, 2024
Growing Chamomile
Chamomile is a versatile herbal remedy that has been used since ancient times for numerous health benefits. It is derived from the flowers of the chamomile plant and contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, stress, insomnia, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, and other conditions. Additionally, research suggests that topical chamomile may help treat skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
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Cheatsheet: Growing Chamomile
Choose the Right Variety
🌼 German Chamomile: Ideal for teas and aromatherapy.
🌼 Roman Chamomile: Perfect for ground covers and lawn alternatives.
Optimal Growing Conditions
☀️ Full sun: At least 6 hours for robust growth.
💦 Well-drained soil: Prevents root rot and ensures healthy plants.
💦 Regular watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, not saturated.
Planting and Care Tips
🏺 Start seeds indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
🌿 Transplant seedlings: When they have 3-4 true leaves.
🌱 Thin seedlings: Maintain 6-12 inches spacing between plants.
🌼 Deadhead spent blooms: Promotes continuous flowering.
Benefits and Uses
💆♀️ Promotes relaxation: Chamomile tea soothes stress and anxiety.
💡 Improves sleep quality: Enjoy a cup before bedtime for better rest.
🌼 Boosts skin health: Chamomile infusion can calm irritation.
🌼 Attracts beneficial insects: Encourages pollinators in your garden.
Harvesting and Storage
🌼 Harvest when flowers are fully open and vibrant.
🌼 Dry flowers: Hang in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area.
🌼 Store in airtight containers: Keeps the aroma and potency intact.
Did You Know?
🗺️ Chamomile originates from ancient Egypt and has been used for centuries.
⚖️ German Chamomile can produce over 1,000,000 flowers per hectare.
🚫 Avoid using herbicides near chamomile plants to prevent contamination.
Growing Chamomile: A Gardener’s Delight
Selecting Your Chamomile Type
Start with the right chamomile. There are two main types: German and Roman chamomile.
German chamomile is taller and best for harvesting flowers, while Roman chamomile is low-growing and great as a ground cover.
Tip: For tea, German chamomile is your best bet due to its abundant, sweet-smelling blossoms.
Planting Chamomile
Timing and Location
Chamomile likes to be sown in spring, a few weeks before the last frost.
Pick a sunny spot; about 6-8 hours of sunlight daily is optimal.
Soil Preparation
Chamomile is forgiving but thrives in well-draining, sandy soil.
If your soil is heavy, amend it with some compost and sand to improve drainage.
"Chamomile thrives on neglect"—don't be too diligent with water and fertilizer!
Planting Seeds and Transplants
For seeds, sprinkle them on the soil surface. Cover lightly with soil.
Water gently but thoroughly. Patience is key; seeds germinate in 1-2 weeks.
- If you’re using transplants, space them about 8-12 inches apart.
- Water them well initially to establish roots.
Caring for Chamomile
Watering Guidelines
Chamomile is drought-resistant. Water moderately.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizing Tips
A light monthly dose of compost tea is usually enough.
Over-fertilizing results in fewer flowers, so less is more.
By the numbers: Optimal soil pH ranges between 6.0 and 7.5.
Harvesting and Using Chamomile
When to Harvest
Wait for blooms to fully open before cutting the flowers.
Morning is ideal, once the dew dries but before the sun is too strong.
Harvesting Techniques
Use scissors or snip flowers off gently; stems can stay behind.
Regular harvesting encourages more blooms, so feel free to snip often.
Drying and Storing
Spread flowers on a screen in a dry, airy space. Dry them in a week or two.
Store dried chamomile in an airtight container, away from light and moisture.
You can enjoy homemade chamomile tea year-round with properly stored flowers.
Personal Tips and Insights
I’ve found that planting chamomile near vegetable beds attracts beneficial insects.
Mixing chamomile with other herbs like lavender and mint enhances both aesthetics and productivity.
Once I planted a patch beside my tomatoes; pests vanished, and pollination improved.
So, give growing chamomile a try this year. Your garden (and your teapot) will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions about Growing Chamomile
1. What is the best time to plant chamomile?
Plant chamomile in early spring or fall when the soil is cool.
2. How do I prepare the soil for growing chamomile?
Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris before planting.
3. Should I start chamomile seeds indoors?
Yes, start chamomile seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
4. How much sunlight does chamomile need?
Chamomile requires full sun for at least 6 hours a day.
5. How often should I water chamomile plants?
Water chamomile regularly to keep the soil moist but not soaked.
6. How tall does chamomile grow?
Chamomile typically grows to a height of 12-24 inches.
7. Can chamomile be grown in pots or containers?
Yes, chamomile can thrive in pots or containers as long as they have good drainage.
8. How long does it take chamomile to flower?
Chamomile usually starts to flower within 6-8 weeks after planting.
9. Can I harvest chamomile flowers for tea?
Absolutely! Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open for brewing tea.
10. How do I dry chamomile flowers for later use?
Hang the chamomile flowers upside down in a cool, well-ventilated area until dried.
Growing chamomile has multiple benefits, both for medicinal and culinary purposes. In the garden, it's a low-maintenance and pest-resistant herb that flowers throughout the summer and attracts valuable beneficial insects. On the kitchen counter, it is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of recipes, from tea to ice cream, to add flavor and delicate color. Medicinally, chamomile is a calming and soothing herb that can help reduce anxiety and is widely used to aid digestion. Additionally, chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties which can provide relief for skin conditions, colds and more.
