

How to Grow and Use Chamomile: A Complete Guide to Cultivating This Relaxing Herb
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile) is a fragrant, daisy-like herb renowned for its calming properties and sweet, apple-like aroma. Often used in teas and herbal remedies, chamomile is a favourite for gardeners and herbalists alike. Its low-maintenance nature and beautiful blooms make it an excellent addition to any herb garden or container.
This guide will provide all the information you need to grow and care for chamomile, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and its many uses.
Understanding the Chamomile Plant
Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies, sunflowers, and asters. Two main types of chamomile are commonly grown:
- German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): An annual herb that grows 30–60 cm tall, with feathery foliage and white flowers with yellow centres. It is primarily grown for its flowers, used in teas and infusions.
- Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): A low-growing perennial with similar flowers, often used as a ground cover or for ornamental purposes.
Both types are valued for their medicinal properties, pollinator-friendly blooms, and ease of cultivation.
How to Plant Chamomile
Chamomile is easy to grow and adapts well to a variety of conditions.
When and Where to Plant Chamomile
- Timing: Sow chamomile seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in spring after the risk of frost has passed. Roman chamomile can also be planted as transplants or divisions in spring or autumn.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with light shade in hotter climates. Chamomile thrives in well-draining soil.
- Soil: Use sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amend heavy soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Steps for Planting Chamomile
- Sow Seeds: Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press them lightly into the soil without covering, as chamomile seeds need light to germinate. Space seeds 20–30 cm apart.
- Water Lightly: Water gently and keep the soil consistently moist until seeds germinate, typically within 7–14 days.
- Transplant Seedlings: Thin seedlings or transplant them to their final location once they are 5–7 cm tall.
Propagating Chamomile
Chamomile can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division.
- Seeds: Sow seeds directly in the garden or indoors in seed trays. Chamomile readily self-seeds if flowers are left to mature.
- Cuttings: Take cuttings from Roman chamomile in spring or summer and root them in moist soil.
- Division: Divide established Roman chamomile plants in spring or autumn and replant the sections.
Caring for Chamomile Plants
Chamomile is a hardy and low-maintenance herb that requires minimal care.
Light, Soil, and Water Requirements
- Light: Provide full sun for optimal growth, though chamomile tolerates partial shade.
- Soil: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Chamomile thrives in moderately fertile soil.
- Water: Water chamomile regularly, especially during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering.
Fertiliser Needs
Chamomile is a light feeder and doesn’t require much fertiliser. A light application of compost or a balanced fertiliser in spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can result in excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning encourages healthy growth and prolongs the flowering period.
- When to Prune: Trim chamomile plants after flowering to encourage new blooms and prevent self-seeding.
- How to Prune: Use scissors to deadhead spent flowers and remove leggy or damaged growth.
Common Pests and Diseases
Chamomile is relatively pest- and disease-resistant but may occasionally face issues.
- Aphids: Wash aphids off with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal infections.
- Damping-Off: Avoid overwatering seedlings and ensure proper drainage to prevent this fungal disease.
Harvesting Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are the primary part of the plant used for teas and remedies.
- When to Harvest: Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open, typically in late spring to early summer.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors to snip flower heads just below the base, leaving enough stems for the plant to regrow.
- Storage: Dry chamomile flowers by spreading them out on a screen in a warm, well-ventilated area. Once dried, store them in an airtight container.
Cooking and Culinary Uses for Chamomile
Chamomile’s sweet, floral flavour makes it a versatile herb in the kitchen and beyond.
- Teas and Infusions: Brew chamomile flowers for a calming tea or infuse them in syrups, honey, or cocktails.
- Baking: Use chamomile flowers to flavour cakes, cookies, and breads for a subtle floral note.
- Herbal Remedies: Add chamomile to homemade bath salts, salves, or skincare products for its soothing properties.
Chamomile pairs well with ingredients like honey, citrus, and mint, making it a delightful addition to teas and desserts.
The Joy of Growing Chamomile
Chamomile is a rewarding herb to grow, offering beauty, fragrance, and versatility. Its delicate flowers, calming aroma, and medicinal properties make it a favourite for herb gardens and containers.
Start growing chamomile today and enjoy its soothing benefits in your teas, remedies, and garden displays. Whether you plant it as a decorative feature or a functional herb, chamomile is a delightful addition to any home.