Growing Your Own Chamomile: From Seed to Sweet Tea
Have you ever enjoyed the soothing aroma and calming effects of chamomile tea? I'm excited to share every step to growing your own chamomile from seed, so you can harvest fresh flowers for your tea. Trust me, once you experience the fruity flavor and intense apple-like aroma of fresh chamomile tea, you'll never go back to the dried bags from the store again.
Watch my YouTube video tutorial all about growing chamomile from seed to harvest.
Types Of Chamomile - Chamomile Seed Varieties
First things first, let's talk seeds. There are two main types of chamomile: German and Roman. They have their differences, so here's a quick breakdown.
German chamomile usually grows taller, between two to three feet, while Roman chamomile is six to twelve inches tall, forming a low, mat-like foliage, perfect for ground cover. German chamomile is an annual plant, completing its lifecycle within one season and reseeding easily. Roman chamomile is a perennial, living for more than two years. The aroma of German chamomile is stronger, with apple hints, while Roman chamomile offers a milder, sweeter scent.
German chamomile is what I grow in my garden due to its more robust aroma and medicinal properties. I even offer seeds on my website if you’re in need.
How To Sow Chamomile Seeds - How To Grow Chamomile From Seed
Timing is essential in sowing seeds. General guidelines suggest direct sowing seeds after your last spring frost date, or indoors four to six weeks before your last spring frost date. Then, transplant outdoors once all danger of frost has passed.
This works for milder climates, but for hot climates like Florida, the timing is very different. Since chamomile is a cool-season crop that doesn’t like heat, hot climates must sow seeds in the fall to grow through winter and spring, letting them naturally die in summer. Direct sow seeds at the end of September when the fall cools, or start indoors in August for a September transplant.
Did you know that chamomile seeds need light to germinate? Many gardeners make the mistake of burying them under the soil, and then wonder why they don’t sprout. To sow them, clear out weeds and debris in a full sun area, sprinkle seeds, pat them down without covering with soil, and gently water in. Keep the area moist, and they should germinate in about seven to ten days.
If you want an early start to your chamomile season or struggle with outdoor germination, sow seeds in pots or trays using sterile seed starting mix. Pat the seeds down so they make contact with the soil and gently water in. Place the pots under bright lights, preferably grow lights.
Ideal Growing Conditions For Chamomile - Choosing The Best Spot To Grow Chamomile In Your Garden
Chamomile thrives in full sun, but in hot climates, a bright morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Though it’s a wildflower and doesn’t need rich soil, good drainage is crucial to avoid root rot. Consistent watering is key, particularly when it’s hot, to prevent drying out. Avoid fertilizing which causes lots of leafy growth but no flowers.
Chamomile Pest Management - Common Pests While Growing Chamomile
The two most common pests when growing chamomile are aphids and spider mites.
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Aphids: These tiny insects feed on chamomile by sucking sap from the leaves and stems, which can stunt growth and weaken the plant. To treat aphids, spray the plant with a strong blast of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, try spraying with organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also help control aphid populations.
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Spider Mites: These microscopic spiders feed on the underside of chamomile leaves, leaving white spots and causing the leaves to curl or fall off. To treat spider mites, spray with organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. For very bad infestations spray with regular applications of spinosad.
Chamomile Disease Management - Common Leaf Or Plant Diseases That Affect Chamomile
The two most common plant diseases when growing chamomile are powdery mildew and root rot.
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Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as white, powdery spots on chamomile leaves, usually in warm, humid conditions. To treat it, improve air circulation around the plants by spacing them properly and removing affected foliage. You can also spray the plant with a solution of 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide per gallon of water.
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Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, root rot can cause the chamomile plant’s roots to become mushy and the plant to wilt. To treat root rot, ensure the plant is in well-drained soil,and reduce watering. Replanting in fresh, well-draining soil can also help prevent further damage.
How & When To Harvest Chamomile Flowers
The best time to harvest flowers is in the morning post-dew when flowers are fully open. Regular harvesting encourages more blooms.
How To Dry Fresh Chamomile Flowers
To dry chamomile flowers for long-term storage, first, harvest them when the petals are fully open. Gently spread the flowers in a single layer on a mesh screen or paper towel in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Let them air dry for about 1-2 weeks, turning occasionally to ensure even drying. Once the flowers are completely dry and crispy to the touch, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly dried chamomile can retain its flavor and medicinal properties for up to a year.
How To Brew Chamomile Tea
Using fresh flowers - use three to four tablespoons for every eight ounces of hot water.
Using dried flowers - use 2 tablespoons for every eight ounces of hot water. or dry them naturally on your countertop for later use. Avoid heating them to maintain medicinal benefits.
Chamomile is versatile, used in teas, skincare, soaps, and more. I hope you found this guide helpful and learned something new! Share your chamomile growing experiences and tips in the comments. Happy gardening.