What To Know
- This blog post will guide you through the process of how to grow chamomile in Colorado, from seed to harvest, ensuring you enjoy the benefits of this soothing herb in your own backyard.
- You can give it a light application of compost tea or a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once a month.
- You can dry the flowers for later use by spreading them on a screen or hanging them in a well-ventilated area.
Colorado’s high altitude and diverse climate offer a unique challenge for gardeners, but also a wealth of opportunity. For those seeking a calming and versatile herb, chamomile is a perfect choice. This blog post will guide you through the process of how to grow chamomile in Colorado, from seed to harvest, ensuring you enjoy the benefits of this soothing herb in your own backyard.
Understanding Chamomile and Colorado’s Climate
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a hardy annual herb that thrives in sunny, well-drained soil. It prefers a neutral pH level and tolerates some drought conditions. While Colorado’s climate is generally suitable for chamomile, its high altitude and cold winters can present some challenges. Here’s what you need to know:
- Sunlight: Chamomile needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Colorado’s bright sunshine is ideal for healthy growth.
- Soil: Chamomile prefers loose, well-drained soil. Colorado’s soil can be heavy clay, so amending it with compost or other organic matter is crucial.
- Temperature: Chamomile is relatively cold-hardy, but it prefers warmer temperatures. Colorado’s summers are generally warm enough for chamomile to thrive, but be mindful of late frosts in spring.
- Water: Chamomile needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Selecting the Right Chamomile Variety
There are two main types of chamomile: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Both possess calming properties, but they differ in their appearance and growth habits.
- German Chamomile: This is the most common type for medicinal use. It has a strong, sweet aroma and produces daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and white petals. It grows upright and reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
- Roman Chamomile: Known for its creeping habit, Roman chamomile forms a dense mat of foliage. It has a milder, apple-like aroma and produces smaller, button-shaped flowers.
For Colorado, German chamomile is generally a better choice due to its resilience and ability to withstand cooler temperatures.
Planting Chamomile in Colorado: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Soil:
- Choose a sunny location in your garden.
- Test the soil pH and amend it if necessary to achieve a neutral pH (6.0-7.0). You can use lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
- Dig the soil to a depth of 12 inches and incorporate compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
2. Sow the Seeds:
- Direct Seeding: Chamomile seeds are very small, so it’s best to sow them directly into the garden bed. Scatter the seeds thinly on the prepared soil, lightly rake them in, and water gently. Space the seeds about 6 inches apart.
- Starting Seeds Indoors: If you want a head start, you can start the seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed starting trays and a seed starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost.
3. Watering and Care:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Once the chamomile plants are established, they will be more drought-tolerant.
- Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Thin the seedlings if they are too crowded, leaving about 6 inches between plants.
4. Fertilizing:
- Chamomile is a light feeder and doesn’t require heavy fertilization.
- You can give it a light application of compost tea or a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once a month.
5. Harvesting Chamomile:
- Harvest the flowers when they are fully open, but before they start to fade.
- Cut the flower heads with scissors or a sharp knife, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached.
- You can dry the flowers for later use by spreading them on a screen or hanging them in a well-ventilated area.
Enjoying the Benefits of Chamomile
Chamomile has numerous benefits, both for your health and your garden.
- Medicinal Properties: Chamomile is known for its calming and soothing properties. It can be used to make teas, tinctures, and other remedies to relieve anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.
- Culinary Uses: Chamomile flowers can be added to teas, soups, and desserts for a delicate, floral flavor.
- Attracting Beneficial Insects: Chamomile flowers attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests in your garden.
- Soil Improvement: Chamomile is a good companion plant for many vegetables and herbs, helping to suppress weeds and improve soil health.
Tips for Success
- Mulch: Applying a layer of mulch around your chamomile plants will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pest Control: Chamomile is generally pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Disease Prevention: Chamomile is susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Provide good air circulation by spacing the plants properly and avoid overwatering.
- Winter Care: Chamomile is an annual plant, so it will die back in the winter. You can collect the seeds for next year’s planting or allow them to drop naturally and self-sow.
Chamomile Cheer: Beyond the Garden
Chamomile is not just an herb, it’s a symbol of peace, tranquility, and well-being. Growing chamomile in your Colorado garden is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy its soothing benefits firsthand. Whether you’re using it for medicinal purposes, culinary delights, or simply adding a touch of beauty to your landscape, chamomile is sure to bring a sense of calm and joy to your life.
Questions You May Have
1. When is the best time to plant chamomile in Colorado?
The best time to plant chamomile in Colorado is in the spring, after the last frost date, which is typically in late May or early June. You can also sow seeds in the fall for a spring harvest.
2. How do I know if my chamomile plants are getting enough water?
Chamomile plants need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch deep. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.
3. What are some common pests and diseases that affect chamomile?
Chamomile is generally pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. You can control pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prevent powdery mildew by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
4. Can I use chamomile tea bags to grow chamomile?
You can try, but it’s not a reliable method. Chamomile tea bags contain dried flowers, and the seeds may not be viable. It’s best to purchase fresh seeds or start with seedlings.
5. Can I grow chamomile in a container?
Yes, you can grow chamomile in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
