Common Chamomile Guide

 

Quit counting sheep and steep a cup of this classic Chamomile for restful sleep that can’t be beat. To dry simply snip a handful leaving a few inches of stem to tie together, hang in a sunny window for up to 4 weeks and enjoy your bedtime behemoth. For a more fragrant brew toss the undried flower heads in a cup and drown with hot water.

If you are allergic to ragweed or chrysanthemums, wear gloves, your skin may be sensitive to handling chamomile.

TO SOW

Chamomile grows best in warmer weather between 60°F-75°F. They thrive in containers and gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends direct seeding.

If Direct Seeding

• Direct seed outside 3-4 weeks after last frost date; or

• Direct seed into a container 8-12 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 60°F-75°F; or

If Transplanting

Begin the growing season early and start the chamomile seeds indoors in trays or pods 2 weeks before the last frost date; germination is best between 65°F-80°F. It can be transplanted outside 2 weeks after the last frost date.

Surface sow chamomile seeds by gently pressing them into the soil 1-2 inches apart with rows spaced 6-8 inches apart. Germination will take 8-14 days.

Thin the seedlings to 10 inches apart if they start competing for space or light.

TO GROW

Chamomile likes most soil with moderate organic matter. Place in a spot where it can get full sun- it will tolerate partial shade, but the blooms may be droopier. Water infrequently and let the soil dry well between watering. Check the top 3-4 inches of soil and if thoroughly dry, then water the chamomile.

They don’t require fertilizer, but you can apply general purpose fertilizer or organic material high in nitrogen every 5-6 weeks.

TO REAP

Chamomile is full grown (mature) in 60-65 days. Snip off the flowers when they are fully blooming. The flowers can be used fresh or dry for tea.

COMMON PESTS/DISEASES

Powdery mildew – avoid overwatering and watering from above on the foliage

*If you are allergic to ragweed or chrysanthemums, wear gloves, your skin may be sensitive to handling chamomile. Plant chamomile with beans, leeks, onions, spinach, and tomatoes.  Avoid planting with parsley, parsnips, turnips, and carrots. *