Chamomile Growing Guide
Matricaria chamomilla
Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous ●
Soil
Fertile, well drained soil.
Position
A sunny spot, for example at the end of a vegetable row or bed.
Frost tolerant
Young seedlings easily tolerate spring frosts, and may survive winters in mild climates. The easiest chamomile to grow is a cool-season annual.
Feeding
Not usually required.
Companions
Leafy greens grown in spring, as well as spring-blooming herbs and flowers.
Spacing
Single Plants: 11" (30cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 9" (25cm) with 1' 3" (40cm) row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Seeds can be started indoors or sown directly in the garden. When allowed to shed mature seeds, chamomile often becomes a welcome volunteer plant.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Feathery chamomile foliage contrasts well with the textures of other herbs and flowers.
Harvesting
Cut branches when they are holding numerous open flowers, and hang in small bunches to dry. Chamomile tea is made from the blossoms only. When the stems are dry, pop off the blossoms and store them in an airtight container.
Troubleshooting
Rabbits enjoy nibbling chamomile foliage.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
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Pests which Affect Chamomile