How To Grow Chamomile

Whenever you hear of the herb 'chamomile', your thoughts invariably go back to the tasty and nutritious tea that is made from it. Yes, chamomile is a favorite herb for brewing tea. Now, did you know that chamomile is not only an excellent herb, but also a treat for your garden? Its plant has daisy-like while flowers, which can add to the beauty of your lawn. In addition, it has a scent that can easily sooth your senses. Along with that, chamomile is also associated with style and elegance. Now, aren’t you tempted to grow this pretty flower in your garden? Yes? Then, go through the following lines and explore tips on how to grow the herbal, perfumed and beautiful plant, we know as chamomile.

Growing Chamomile Plant

There are two main types of chamomile i.e. Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. Both these types are almost similar in needs. While both can be started from germination, Roman Chamomile is less reliable. So, if you are a first timer, better go for German Chamomile.
Chamomile can be grown either from seeds or from saplings. If you are growing it from seeds, plant them in a tray and after they have germinated, transport them outside. You can even plant the seeds directly in your kitchen garden and save your time.
While growing chamomile from seeds, don't plant them very deep. Rather, cover them with a thin layer of soil, as they need lots of light for proper germination. Even if you are germinating the seeds in a tray, keep it on the windowsill, to provide enough sunlight. If the outside temperature is warm and sunny, better sprinkle the seeds in the lawn directly, rather than transferring them later on.
If you are using saplings to grow chamomile, make sure to buy healthy saplings from the nursery, the ones without any brown patches. Try to go for flowerless saplings, as early flowering may damage the proper growth of the plant. Space the saplings 60 to 70 cm apart and plant in rows. Keep the soil mulched.
Plant chamomile in warm weather, preferably in early spring or early fall, before the first frost. The site that you choose for the plant should receive full sunlight. The soil should be well prepared. The best soil for chamomile should be light, porous, and well-manured. It should preferably be sandy and have pH in the range of 6.0 to 8.5.
You should water chamomile plants regularly, but over water, as they are vulnerable to wilting. Water them with a wand, through a soft shower. Being a creeping herb, chamomile needs to be mowed a lot. Feed the plant with organic liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks. Make sure they get enough sunlight, as the deficiency of sunlight may cause mildew in them.
You can grow chamomile near other herbs as well, since it helps other plants to acquire better medicinal properties and makes them stronger also. However, if left unattended in a good environment, the plant can spread in the whole garden. So, keep on mowing it on a regular basis.
You can start harvesting the plant when it reaches the desirable height. If you want only the flowers, pick them in the morning, as they are in best position then. Also, harvest only when they are in peak bloom. If you want to store the flowers for long, keep them in a dry and cool place. You can cut the plant in the fall and cover it with mulch, to protect it from harsh winter.

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