Growing Chamomile

Growing Chamomile from seed to harvest. The two main varieties of chamomile are German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Both are used to make chamomile tea. Then there is also Dyer’s chamomile (Anthemis tinctoria) which also has medicinal properties. They are all different species of plants, but they belong to the Asteraceae family.

Indoor Sowing: Late winter and Early Spring.

Direct Sowing: Late Spring and Early Summer.

• Sow Chamomile Seeds in late spring or early summer to avoid frost.
• Sprinkle the seeds across the top of the soil and cover very lightly with soil.
• The seeds need light to germinate.
• Water thoroughly until the soil is moist.
• Seeds need plenty of water to germinate, so mist the area daily.
• You need to be patient with chamomile because it takes 14-21 days to germinate.
• It prefers not too rich, organic soil.
• It does best with neutral pH (between 5.6 and 7.5).
• Regular water will keep the plants in bloom longer, but chamomile plants are very drought tolerant, once established.
• In extremely hot climates, chamomile will appreciate being kept watered and getting some afternoon shade.

Maintaining Chamomile Plants

• Chamomile plants are low maintenance and can tolerate poor soil.
• Water young plants regularly until they are well rooted and water regularly during dry spells in the summer.
• Keep seedlings and young plants weed-free.
• Prune back lightly if the plants become leggy.

Harvesting Chamomile

• Harvest the flower heads in the morning by raking your fingers through the flowers and gently tugging
• Harvest flowers frequently or deadhead fading flowers to encourage new buds.
• Lay the flowers out in a single layer on paper towels and dry in a dark, warm, dry area for one to two weeks.
• You can also dry in a dehydrator at the lowest setting.
• Store the dried flowers in a sealed glass jar for up to six months.