How to Grow Chamomile

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla for German chamomile and Chamaemelum nobile for Roman chamomile) is a beloved herb, well-known for its calming properties and beautiful daisy-like flowers. Its delicate, white petals and bright yellow centers make it a cheerful addition to any garden. Chamomile has been used for centuries for its soothing qualities, particularly in teas, where it is famous for promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and aiding sleep. It's also valued for its mild anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits, often being used as a natural remedy for stomach discomfort and anxiety.

Beyond its medicinal applications, chamomile is also used in cosmetics and skincare, known for its gentle and healing properties. Its mild, sweet fragrance makes it an excellent addition to floral arrangements or essential oil blends. Chamomile is easy to grow, making it an ideal herb for beginner gardeners or those looking to cultivate a calming herb right at home.

Growing chamomile from seed offers you the opportunity to enjoy fresh, homegrown flowers that you can use for teas, tinctures, or simply to brighten up your space. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from sowing the seeds to harvesting your first chamomile blooms.

Why Grow Chamomile

There are several compelling reasons to grow chamomile in your garden:

• Calming and Medicinal Properties: Chamomile is widely known for its ability to soothe anxiety, promote sleep, and improve digestion. Growing it at home allows you to have a fresh, natural remedy at your fingertips.
• Easy to Grow: Chamomile is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of environments. Whether you're a gardening novice or an expert, chamomile can be easily cultivated in your garden or in containers.
• Beautiful and Fragrant: With its daisy-like flowers and pleasant fragrance, chamomile adds beauty and charm to any garden or patio. It's perfect for filling in spaces and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Culinary and Skincare Uses: Chamomile can be used in a variety of ways, fresh flowers in teas, dried flowers in herbal infusions, or even as an ingredient in homemade skincare products like lotions and face masks.
• Annual or Perennial: Depending on the type, chamomile can be an annual or perennial. Roman chamomile (perennial) will return year after year, while German chamomile (annual) will need to be replanted each season. Either way, you'll have a fresh supply of flowers.

Types of Chamomile

There are two main types of chamomile commonly grown:

• German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): This is the more commonly used variety for herbal teas and natural remedies. It's an annual plant that grows about 1-2 feet tall and produces fragrant white flowers with yellow centers. German chamomile has a slightly stronger flavor and aroma, making it ideal for medicinal uses.
• Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): Roman chamomile is a perennial herb that forms a low-growing ground cover. While it produces smaller flowers, it has a similar flavor to German chamomile, though it is often used more for ornamental purposes and as a ground cover in gardens.

Both varieties have similar uses, but German chamomile is typically preferred for medicinal and culinary purposes. The choice of which to grow will depend on your specific needs and climate.

How to Grow Chamomile from Seed

Growing chamomile from seed can be a fulfilling and simple process. While chamomile does require some attention during the early stages of growth, once established, it is a hardy and easy-to-care-for herb. Follow these steps to grow chamomile from seed successfully:

1. Selecting Chamomile Seeds

You can start by purchasing chamomile seeds from a reputable source. Look for varieties suited to your climate. German chamomile is best for most climates, but if you live in a milder area, Roman chamomile may work better as a perennial option.

2. When to Start Chamomile Seeds

Chamomile prefers cooler weather and does well in the early spring or late summer, so timing is important:

• Indoor Starting: If you live in a region with cold winters, it's best to start chamomile seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. This gives your seedlings a head start and ensures they're ready for transplanting once the weather warms up.
• Direct Sowing Outdoors: If you live in a milder climate, you can sow chamomile seeds directly outdoors after the last frost, typically in early spring. Chamomile prefers moderate temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C - 21°C), so sowing during this time helps the plants establish themselves without the risk of frost.

3. Preparing the Soil for Chamomile

Chamomile thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.5). Here's how to prepare your soil:

• Location: Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Chamomile loves the sun, and it needs ample light to grow and produce healthy flowers.
• Soil Quality: Chamomile is not picky about soil and can tolerate poor, dry soils. However, it will grow best in light, sandy soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy, add sand or perlite to improve drainage.
• Soil Preparation: Before sowing, loosen the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches. If growing chamomile in containers, use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix to ensure the roots don't sit in water, which could cause rot.

4. Sowing Chamomile Seeds

Chamomile seeds are small, so they need to be sown carefully. Follow these steps for successful seed sowing:

• Sowing Depth: Scatter the seeds thinly over the soil surface, as chamomile seeds need light to germinate. Gently press them into the soil with a flat tool or by hand, but do not cover them with soil.
• Spacing: Space the seeds about 12-18 inches apart if you're planting in rows. If you're planting in containers, plant multiple seeds in a larger pot and thin them out as the plants grow.
• Watering: Mist the surface of the soil gently with a spray bottle or water can. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Chamomile seeds are delicate, and over-watering can lead to mold growth.

5. Creating the Ideal Germination Environment

Chamomile seeds are relatively slow to germinate, but with the right conditions, they will sprout in 7-14 days. Here's how to create the best environment for germination:

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature of about 60°F to 70°F (15°C - 21°C). A seed-starting heat mat can help speed up the germination process in cooler climates.
• Light: After sowing, place your seed trays in a sunny spot or under a grow light. Chamomile needs at least 8-10 hours of light per day for healthy growth. If growing indoors, use fluorescent or LED grow lights to ensure the plants get enough light.
• Humidity: Keep the seed trays covered with a plastic dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover to allow for better airflow and prevent mold growth.

6. Transplanting Chamomile Seedlings

Once the chamomile seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves, they are ready to be transplanted. Follow these steps:

• Hardening Off: Gradually acclimate your seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day over the course of 5-7 days. This process helps reduce transplant shock.
• Transplanting: When transplanting, choose a sunny, well-draining spot with enough room for the plants to spread. Space them about 12-18 inches apart to allow for growth.
• Container Planting: Chamomile also grows well in containers. Choose a pot with adequate drainage holes and ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight. If growing in a container, ensure it is large enough to accommodate the root system, ideally at least 12 inches deep.

7. Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Chamomile is low-maintenance but does require some care to thrive:

• Watering: Once established, chamomile is relatively drought-tolerant, but it still requires regular watering. Water the plants deeply when the soil is dry to the touch, allowing the roots to soak up the moisture.
• Pruning: Prune the plants regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Remove any dead or damaged foliage, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
• Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and prevent weeds from overtaking your chamomile.

8. Pest and Disease Management

Chamomile is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract aphids, slugs, or spider mites. To prevent or address pest problems, use the following methods:

• Pest Control: If you notice pests, remove them by hand or spray the plants with insecticidal soap. You can also introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to control aphids naturally.
• Disease Prevention: Chamomile can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Ensure proper spacing for good airflow, and avoid overhead watering to reduce moisture on the leaves.

9. Harvesting Chamomile

The best time to harvest chamomile flowers is when the petals are fully open but before they start to wilt:

• Harvesting Flowers: Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut the flowers just above the leaves. Harvest flowers in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in, as this helps preserve the plant's oils.
• Drying and Storing: To dry chamomile flowers, bundle them together and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Once fully dry, store the flowers in airtight containers away from direct sunlight.

Growing chamomile from seed is a fulfilling and straightforward process that rewards you with a soothing, fragrant herb that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you're harvesting the flowers for tea, making essential oils, or enjoying them as part of your garden's natural beauty, chamomile is a delightful addition to any space.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow chamomile in your garden or containers. Not only will you enjoy the therapeutic benefits of fresh chamomile, but you'll also have the satisfaction of growing it from seed. Happy gardening, and may your chamomile plants flourish with every season!