 |
Depth to Plant
|
Spacing Between Plants |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
|
Germination
|
Best Season to Plant_________ |
Sun
|
Soil
|
Good Plant Companions |
Days to Maturity
|
| 1/8" Deep | 6" Apart | 10-14 Days | Best at 60-70 degrees | Spring & Summer | Full Sun | pH 7.0-7.5 | Cabbage & onions | 60-65 |
Starting Chamomile from Seed
Chamomile is one of the easiest herbs to grow from seed, making it perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. With minimal care and attention, you'll have a thriving chamomile plant ready for tea, potpourri, or natural remedies in just a few weeks.
Choosing Your Seeds and Soil
Select high-quality chamomile seeds from a trusted source. German chamomile is the most common variety and grows as an annual, while Roman chamomile is a perennial option. Fill seed trays or small pots with seed-starting mix—a light, well-draining soil blend that's ideal for germination. Moisten the soil before planting to ensure even hydration.
Planting and Germination
Chamomile seeds are tiny, so sprinkle them thinly across the soil surface. Unlike larger seeds, chamomile needs light to germinate, so don't cover them with soil. Simply press them gently into the surface and mist with water. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 14 days at temperatures between 60°F and 70°F.
Light and Temperature Needs
Once seedlings emerge, provide bright, indirect light for at least 12 to 14 hours daily. A sunny windowsill or grow light works well. Maintain temperatures around 65°F to 75°F during the day. Chamomile is cold-hardy, so it can tolerate cooler nights, which actually encourages stronger growth.
Watering and Feeding
Water seedlings regularly to keep soil moist but never soggy—excess moisture invites damping off disease. Once plants are established, chamomile is quite drought-tolerant. Feed seedlings every two weeks with a diluted, balanced fertilizer. Organic options like fish emulsion work beautifully for herb gardening.
Transplanting Outdoors
When seedlings develop their first true leaves and reach 2 to 3 inches tall, thin them out or transplant into individual pots. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Plant them outside in full sun once frost danger has passed. Space plants 9 to 12 inches apart in well-draining soil.
Harvesting Your Chamomile
Chamomile flowers appear 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Harvest blooms in the morning after dew has dried but before the sun becomes too strong. Pinch flowers off by hand or use scissors, leaving some flowers to reseed. Dry flowers on a paper towel in a warm, dark, well-ventilated space for 1 to 2 weeks before storing in an airtight container.
With consistent care and attention to moisture levels, your organic chamomile will reward you with abundant, fragrant blooms throughout the growing season.
In Summary
| How to Grow & Harvest Chamomile |
|
When to Plant Choose a "cool growing season" for planting chamomile. This is when it will thrive best. Also, choose a partly sunny location. How to Plant Once your chamomile plant is established, it doesn't require much care. It usually grows best when it's not "fussed over". Too much fertilizer can weaken the flavor. Chamomile is drought tolerant, so only water it in times of prolonged drought. When to Harvest Wait to harvest your chamomile once all dew has dried from the plant. Try to harvest the flowers before sunset, as the flowers will close at that time and then re-open again in the morning. Once you've harvested the flowers, turn them upside down and shake gently to remove any dust or insects that may be stuck inside. Place the flowers in a very warm place. Usually a closet is a good option, because it will allow your flowers to dry away from any sunlight or moisture. Now that your herb has dried, remove the stem and keep the flowers. Put them in an airtight container, away from the sun. |
