What To Know
- Whether you’re seeking a natural remedy for sleeplessness or simply want to add a touch of tranquility to your garden, learning how to grow chamomile is a rewarding endeavor.
- If you want to use chamomile in culinary dishes or for its ornamental value, Roman chamomile might be a better fit.
- Spread the harvested flowers on a screen or tray in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Chamomile, with its delicate white flowers and soothing aroma, has been treasured for centuries for its calming properties. Whether you’re seeking a natural remedy for sleeplessness or simply want to add a touch of tranquility to your garden, learning how to grow chamomile is a rewarding endeavor. This comprehensive guide will take you through every step, from choosing the right variety to harvesting and enjoying your very own homegrown chamomile.
Choosing the Right Chamomile Variety
The first step in your chamomile journey is selecting the right variety. There are two main types: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).
- German chamomile: This variety is the most common and is known for its strong, slightly sweet aroma. It produces small, daisy-like flowers that are ideal for brewing tea.
- Roman chamomile: This variety has a milder, sweeter aroma and is often used in culinary applications. Its flowers are larger and have a more pronounced white center.
Consider the purpose of your chamomile when making your choice. If you’re primarily interested in brewing tea, German chamomile is the better option. If you want to use chamomile in culinary dishes or for its ornamental value, Roman chamomile might be a better fit.
Preparing Your Growing Space
Chamomile thrives in well-drained soil that receives full sun to partial shade. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Here’s how to prepare your growing space:
1. Test your soil: A soil test will reveal the pH level and nutrient content of your soil. Chamomile prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). If your soil is too acidic, you can amend it with lime.
2. Amend the soil: Chamomile grows best in loose, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or compacted, work in some compost or aged manure to improve drainage and aeration.
3. Clear the area: Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area.
Sowing Chamomile Seeds
Chamomile can be grown from seed or started from seedlings.
To sow chamomile seeds:
1. Direct sowing: Direct sowing is the easiest method. Plant seeds in the spring after the last frost, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Gently press the seeds into the soil and lightly water.
2. Starting indoors: If you live in a colder climate, you can start chamomile seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays or small pots filled with a seed starting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide adequate light.
3. Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin them out to about 6 inches apart to give them space to grow.
Caring for Your Chamomile Plants
Chamomile is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy and thriving:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy.
- Weeding: Keep the area around your chamomile plants free of weeds. Weeding helps prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Fertilizing: Chamomile doesn’t require heavy fertilization. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season is sufficient.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around your chamomile plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Harvesting Your Chamomile Flowers
Chamomile flowers are ready for harvest when they are fully open and the petals are facing upwards.
Here’s how to harvest your chamomile:
1. Cut the flowers: Use sharp scissors or a knife to cut the flower heads just below the first set of leaves.
2. Dry the flowers: Spread the harvested flowers on a screen or tray in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight. It takes about 7-10 days for the flowers to dry completely.
3. Store the dried flowers: Once dry, store the flowers in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Using Your Homegrown Chamomile
Once you’ve harvested and dried your chamomile flowers, you can use them in various ways:
- Brewing tea: Chamomile tea is a soothing and calming beverage. To make chamomile tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.
- Infused oils and lotions: Chamomile flowers can be infused in oil or used to create calming lotions. These preparations can be used for massage or to soothe irritated skin.
- Culinary uses: Roman chamomile has a milder flavor and can be used to flavor desserts, sauces, and soups. It can also be added to salads for a unique floral touch.
Enjoying the Benefits of Your Chamomile Garden
Growing chamomile is a rewarding experience that brings both beauty and benefits to your life. From the calming scent of the flowers to the soothing effects of chamomile tea, your garden will become a sanctuary of tranquility. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the calming properties of your homegrown chamomile!
Answers to Your Questions
Q: How long does it take for chamomile to grow?
A: Chamomile plants typically take about 8-10 weeks to mature from seed.
Q: Can I grow chamomile in a pot?
A: Yes, chamomile can be successfully grown in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
Q: What are the pests and diseases that affect chamomile?
A: Chamomile is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: When should I harvest chamomile?
A: Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open and the petals are facing upwards. This is typically in the late spring or early summer.
Q: How long can I store dried chamomile flowers?
A: Dried chamomile flowers can be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
