Soothing chamomile: 5 growing tips
Chamomile is a beloved herb with a calming reputation; many of us enjoy it in teas before bed for its gentle, sleep-promoting qualities. Growing your own chamomile can be deeply rewarding, giving you access to the freshest possible version of this soothing herb. This article provides five key tips to ensure your success in growing chamomile, guaranteeing a plentiful harvest.
Select the right variety
There are two primary varieties of chamomile: German and Roman. German chamomile is an annual plant that grows taller and produces many flowers, while Roman chamomile is a perennial ground cover with fewer blooms. For most gardeners, German chamomile is the better choice because it produces more flowers and is easier to harvest. When choosing seeds or plants, make sure they are appropriate for your climate zone to ensure success.
Plant in well-drained soil
Chamomile prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Before planting, incorporate compost into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage. If your garden has heavy clay soil, raise beds or add sand and organic matter to improve texture and drainage. While chamomile doesn't need fertile soil, well-prepared soil greatly enhances plant health and flower production.
Ensure adequate sunlight
To ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering, position your chamomile where it will receive a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. Although chamomile can survive in partial shade, insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy growth and reduced flower production. If you're cultivating chamomile in pots or containers, make sure to place them in a spot where they'll get plenty of sun throughout the day.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering
Chamomile requires consistent watering to develop a strong root system, but becomes somewhat drought-tolerant once established. The trick is to maintain the soil damp but not waterlogged. Excess watering may result in root rot and other fungal diseases. In case of dry periods or high temperatures, it's better to water your plants deeply once or twice a week instead of daily shallow watering.
Harvest flowers at peak bloom
The ideal time to harvest chamomile flowers is when they are fully open and before the petals start to fold backward towards the stem—this indicates that they are past their prime for harvesting. Simply use scissors or your fingers to clip the flower heads in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too hot. Frequent harvesting promotes continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
