Chamomile is a dainty, aromatic herb best known for its calming properties and gentle floral scent. Belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae), it typically features small white petals surrounding a bright yellow center. There are two common types: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), both of which are used in herbal teas, skincare products, and traditional remedies. Chamomile has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, aid sleep, and soothe digestive issues. Its dried flowers are most famously brewed into a mild, slightly sweet tea that’s popular as a nighttime beverage. In addition to its calming effects, chamomile also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a go-to ingredient in natural wellness routines. Visually charming and medicinally powerful, chamomile is a staple in herbal medicine and an easy favourite for anyone looking to unwind naturally.

How To Grow

1. Choose Your Type German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): An annual that grows tall and is commonly used for tea. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): A perennial, low-growing ground cover with a sweet scent.

2. Pick the Right Spot Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, but it can tolerate partial shade. Soil: Light, well-draining soil is best. Chamomile doesn’t need super-rich soil—too much fertilizer can actually reduce its flavour and aroma.

3. Start from Seeds or Seedlings From Seed: Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors in early spring. Lightly press the seeds into the soil—don’t cover them; they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until they sprout (usually within 7–14 days).

From Seedlings: Plant outdoors after the last frost when the soil has warmed a bit.

4. Watering Water moderately. Chamomile doesn’t like soggy roots—let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.

5. Maintenance Thin out seedlings so they’re about 8–10 inches apart. No need to over-fertilize—chamomile thrives in slightly neglected conditions. Deadhead (remove spent flowers) to encourage more blooms.

How/When To Harvesting

When to Harvest Timing: Harvest when the flowers are fully open, usually in mid to late summer. The white petals should be flat or just starting to drop downward. Early morning is best—after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too strong. That’s when the oils are most concentrated.

How to Harvest Gently pinch or snip the flower heads right at the base, where the flower meets the stem. You can use your fingers, small scissors, or garden snips. Avoid taking too much stem—just the flower head is what you want for tea or drying.

Keep It Going Chamomile blooms again and again if you harvest regularly. The more you pick, the more it produces—like nature’s encouragement to make more tea!

Drying & Storing Lay flowers out in a single layer on a screen, paper towel, or drying rack. Keep them in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place, out of direct sunlight. Let them dry completely (usually about 1–2 weeks). Store the dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot.