Chamomile

Chamomile is a dainty, aromatic herb beloved for its calming properties and gentle floral scent. Belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae), it produces cheerful small white petals surrounding a bright yellow domed centre. There are two common types grown by gardeners:

• German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) — an annual that grows 30–60 cm tall, prized for its prolific flowers and use in herbal teas.
• Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) — a low-growing perennial often used as a fragrant ground cover, with a sweeter, apple-like scent.

Chamomile has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, aid sleep, and soothe digestive complaints. Its dried flowers are most famously brewed into a mild, slightly sweet herbal tea. Beyond the teacup, chamomile contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, making it a popular ingredient in natural skincare and wellness products.

In the garden, chamomile is considered a beneficial companion plant, often said to improve the health and flavour of nearby vegetables and herbs. It attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, adding both beauty and ecological value to any growing space.

How To Grow

How to Grow Chamomile

Choosing Your Variety

• German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): An annual, tall-growing (30–60 cm), and the most common choice for tea production.
• Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): A perennial, low-growing ground cover with a sweet, apple-like fragrance.

Soil and Position

Chamomile thrives in light, well-drained soil and does not require particularly fertile ground — overly rich soil can actually reduce the concentration of aromatic oils in the flowers. A position in full sun is ideal, though it will tolerate partial shade.

Sowing from Seed

• Surface-sow seeds, pressing them gently onto the soil surface — they need light to germinate and should not be buried.
• Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost, or direct-sow outdoors in early spring once the soil begins to warm.
• Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days at soil temperatures of 15–20°C.
• Keep the growing medium consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

Transplanting

• Harden off indoor-started seedlings before transplanting outside.
• Space plants 20 cm apart in all directions.

Ongoing Care

• Water moderately — allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Chamomile dislikes waterlogged roots.
• Avoid excessive fertilising; chamomile performs well in low-nutrient conditions.
• Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
• German chamomile will self-seed prolifically if some flowers are left to mature, naturalising readily in the garden.

Harvesting

Harvesting Chamomile

When to Harvest

The best time to harvest chamomile flowers is when they are fully open — the white petals should be flat or just beginning to reflexe (bend back) away from the yellow centre. Harvesting at this stage ensures the highest concentration of aromatic oils and active compounds.

• Flowers typically appear 2–3 months after sowing, continuing over several weeks.
• Early morning is the ideal time to harvest — after dew has dried but before the heat of the day, when essential oils are at their peak.

How to Harvest

• Gently pinch or snip the flower heads at the base, where the flower meets the stem.
• Use your fingers, small scissors, or garden snips for a clean cut.
• Harvest only the flower heads for tea or drying, leaving the stems.
• Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more blooms — the more you pick, the more it flowers.

Drying and Storing

1. Spread flowers in a single layer on a drying rack, screen, or paper-lined tray.
2. Place in a warm, dry, well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight.
3. Allow to dry completely — usually 1–2 weeks, depending on humidity.
4. Store dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
5. Properly dried chamomile retains its potency for up to 12 months.

Common Problems

Common Problems with Chamomile

Aphids

Aphids may cluster on young shoots and flower buds. A strong blast of water or an application of insecticidal soap usually controls infestations. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings helps keep populations in check.

Powdery Mildew

In humid or overcrowded conditions, chamomile can develop powdery mildew — a white, dusty coating on leaves. Improve air circulation by thinning plants, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected foliage promptly.

Damping Off

Young seedlings are vulnerable to damping off (caused by soilborne fungi), particularly if sown in cold, wet conditions. Use a well-draining seed compost and avoid overwatering to reduce risk.

Leggy Growth

Chamomile grown in insufficient light may become leggy and fail to flower well. Ensure plants receive adequate sun exposure.

Fungal Root Rot

Poor drainage and overwatering can lead to root rot. Plant in well-drained soil and water only when the top layer of soil has dried out.

Self-Seeding

German chamomile self-seeds prolifically. While not a disease or pest problem, it can become invasive in small gardens if spent flowers are not removed before seeds mature. Deadhead regularly or collect seed heads if you wish to control spread.