What To Know
- If you prefer a milder flavor or want a low-maintenance groundcover, Roman chamomile is a better option.
- Chamomile doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer, but you can give it a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
- Add a handful of dried chamomile flowers to a warm bath for a relaxing and soothing experience.
Are you looking for a natural way to relax and de-stress? Growing your own chamomile is a rewarding experience that brings the soothing power of this beloved herb right to your doorstep. Learning how to grow chamomile at home is easier than you might think, and the benefits are numerous. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting your own calming tea.
Why Grow Chamomile?
Chamomile, a member of the daisy family, has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The plant’s calming effects are well-documented, making it a popular remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues. Beyond its therapeutic uses, chamomile boasts a delightful, apple-like aroma and adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
Choosing the Right Chamomile Variety
There are two main types of chamomile: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Both are known for their calming properties, but they differ in appearance and growth habits.
- German chamomile is the most common type used for medicinal purposes. It has a strong, pungent aroma and produces small, white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers.
- Roman chamomile has a milder aroma and produces larger, white flowers with a yellow center. It tends to spread more readily than German chamomile and is often used as a groundcover.
Choose the variety that best suits your needs and growing conditions. If you’re looking for a potent tea, German chamomile is a good choice. If you prefer a milder flavor or want a low-maintenance groundcover, Roman chamomile is a better option.
Planting Chamomile: Getting Started
Chamomile thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting your chamomile:
1. Choose your location: Select a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Chamomile can tolerate some shade but prefers full sun.
2. Prepare the soil: Chamomile prefers loose, well-drained soil. Amend your soil with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and add nutrients.
3. Sow the seeds: Chamomile seeds are small, so don’t bury them too deep. Scatter the seeds lightly over the prepared soil and gently rake them in.
4. Water gently: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
5. Thin the seedlings: Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to about 6-8 inches apart. This will give them plenty of space to grow.
Caring for Your Chamomile Plants
Chamomile is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does need some care to thrive.
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
- Weed regularly: Chamomile is a shallow-rooted plant, so weeds can quickly overtake it. Weed regularly to ensure your chamomile plants have enough space to grow.
- Fertilize occasionally: Chamomile doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer, but you can give it a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
Harvesting Your Chamomile Flowers
Chamomile flowers are ready to harvest when they are fully open and the petals are fully extended. You can harvest the flowers throughout the growing season, from late spring to early autumn.
1. Cut the flowers: Cut the flowers just below the bloom, leaving a small stem attached.
2. Dry the flowers: Spread the flowers on a screen or tray in a warm, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Turn the flowers occasionally to ensure even drying.
3. Store the dried flowers: Once the flowers are completely dry, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Enjoying Your Homegrown Chamomile
There are many ways to enjoy your homegrown chamomile. Here are a few ideas:
- Make chamomile tea: Steep a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea and enjoy.
- Add chamomile to bathwater: Add a handful of dried chamomile flowers to a warm bath for a relaxing and soothing experience.
- Make chamomile oil: Infuse dried chamomile flowers in oil for several weeks to create a soothing oil that can be used for massage or aromatherapy.
Beyond the Garden: Chamomile’s Benefits
Chamomile’s calming properties are well-documented. Studies have shown that chamomile can help to:
- Reduce anxiety and stress: Chamomile contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which has calming effects on the brain.
- Improve sleep quality: Chamomile can help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Ease digestive issues: Chamomile is often used to soothe digestive problems, such as indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.
A Little Extra Care for Your Chamomile Garden
While chamomile is generally easy to grow, there are a few things you can do to ensure a bountiful harvest.
- Companion planting: Chamomile pairs well with other herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme. These companion plants can attract beneficial insects and deter pests.
- Mulching: Mulching around your chamomile plants can help to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Pest control: Chamomile is generally resistant to pests, but aphids and spider mites can occasionally be a problem. Monitor your plants regularly for signs of infestation and treat as needed.
Harvesting the Rewards of Your Labor
Growing your own chamomile is a rewarding experience. Not only do you have a constant supply of this soothing herb, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve grown it yourself. From the moment you sow the seeds to the moment you sip a cup of chamomile tea, the journey is filled with the joy of nurturing life and reaping its natural benefits.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. How long does it take for chamomile to grow?
Chamomile can take 8-10 weeks to mature from seed to flower.
2. Can I grow chamomile indoors?
You can grow chamomile indoors in a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. However, it may not thrive as well as it would outdoors.
3. How long can I store dried chamomile flowers?
Dried chamomile flowers can be stored in airtight containers for up to a year.
4. Is chamomile safe for everyone?
Chamomile is generally safe for most people. However, some people may experience allergic reactions. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using chamomile, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.
5. Can I grow chamomile from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate chamomile from cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist.
