Cozy Up With Chamomile: Growing And Harvesting A Classic

As I ventured into the raised garden beds of my upcoming project, I was struck by the vibrant array of plants on display. Among the lush foliage and bountiful harvests, one specimen in particular caught my attention: a line of chamomile flowers standing tall at two feet, emitting a sweet aroma reminiscent of crisp apples. The soft, white blooms complemented the nearby starspray flowers, which gently curved over the cabbage heads with an air of relaxed elegance.

As I paused to appreciate the beauty of this herb, I was delighted by its fragrance and texture. Crushing the flower petals between my fingers released a soothing scent that lingered pleasantly. Little did I know that these very flowers would become my new favorite tea, sparking a personal journey to cultivate and explore their unique charms.

In the following pages, you’ll find practical insights on growing and harvesting chamomile, distilled from my own experiences and gleaned from the wisdom of fellow enthusiasts. We’ll also delve into the rich history of this beloved herb, its uses across cultures, and perhaps even inspire a pot of soothing tea to warm your senses.

What You’ll Learn

Throughout the history of chamomile cultivation, various varieties have emerged. In Europe, particularly Germany and Rome, the herb has been a staple in gardens for centuries. The unique characteristics of each region’s climate, soil quality, and companion plants have shaped the growth habits and uses of these local chamomile varieties. In terms of light conditions, some chamomile species prefer full sun to partial shade, while others thrive in complete shade.

Companion planting is also crucial, as certain plants like lavender and rosemary can enhance chamomile’s fragrance and flavor. Soil quality plays a significant role in determining the herb’s growth rate, with well-draining soil being essential for healthy root development. In addition to its natural cultivation, chamomile can be propagated through fertilization and seed. However, pests and other problems like fungal diseases and aphids may arise, requiring careful monitoring and management.

Harvesting and processing chamomile leaves into herbal tea is a labor of love. The delicate flowers must be handled with care to preserve their potent essential oils. Some enthusiasts choose to let their chamomile plants grow wild, allowing the herb’s natural beauty to flourish in an untamed environment.

Historical Cultivation and Use

Matricaria chamomilla, also affectionately known as pinhead, scented mayweed, or babuna, holds a special place in history and culture. The Latin name translates to ‘water of youth,’ and it’s no wonder why this charming flower has gained such widespread recognition. Native to central and southern Europe, its popularity has spread far beyond its geographical roots.

In ancient civilizations like Greece, Egypt, and Rome, chamomilla was a staple in herbal remedies.

It was used to treat a range of ailments, including hay fever, menstrual disorders, inflammation, insomnia, muscle spasms, gastrointestinal pain, and rheumatic pain. The dried and crushed flowers and leaves were also brewed into a soothing tea, said to promote a restful sleep and alleviate stomach discomfort.

Today, Hungary is one of the largest producers of Matricaria chamomilla, with a significant portion being exported to Germany for processing.

Varieties of Chamomile

While it’s understandable to get different types of aster mixed up with Matricaria chamomilla, these plants are distinct. In fact, there are only two true species of chamomile worth exploring: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). These two species share a common name, but they exhibit notable differences that set them apart from one another.

German

Chamomilla’s annual nature allows it to thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9, making it an attractive choice for those seeking tall, fragrant blooms. This scented mayweed is often cultivated for its essential oils, which are used to infuse the aromatic flowers found in many herbal teas.

Reaching approximately two feet in height, Chamomilla’s aggressive self-seeding habit can lead one to mistake it for a perennial.

While soil quality is not crucial, light and temperature conditions play a more significant role in its growth.

Chamomila’s shallow roots barely grip the topsoil, making them sensitive to water conditions during initial stages of growth. Once established, however, this mayweed is surprisingly drought-tolerant, preferring about an inch of rainfall per week.

To optimize watering, a rain gauge can be used to measure Mother Nature’s free watering, allowing for targeted supplementation with hoses and sprinklers.

Understanding Chamomilla’s preferences can be challenging. While it will grow in almost any soil condition, poor soil may lead to top-heavy, floppy growth. In such cases, staking the plant with bamboo stakes and garden twine can provide support.

Roman

While C. nobile’s Roman counterpart may command attention with its height, this low-growing perennial is a different story altogether. As it spreads via rhizome, it can quickly assert dominance over a small area if left unchecked. This makes it an excellent choice for use as a permanent ground cover or lawn replacement. While its flowers and leaves are certainly edible, the plant is often cultivated specifically for its benefits as a ground cover.

In containers, it serves as an attractive accent plant, while its ability to suppress weed growth between vegetable rows makes it a valuable living mulch. If used as a traditional ground cover, it can even tolerate light foot traffic. Although it produces fewer blooms than its tall-growing cousin, C. nobile offers potential uses that go beyond what the German variety provides. Despite these differences, all varieties of this plant share certain key traits in common.

Light Conditions, Companion Plants, and Soil Quality

Chamomile plants thrive in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It’s essential to note that temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit are not suitable for these plants. On the other hand, they complement a variety of plants in your garden, making them an excellent addition. When it comes to companion planting, M. chamomilla pairs well with onions, cabbage, and mint. This herb also serves as an effective ground cover, suppressing weed growth while producing delicious flowers.

Both the upright German and low-growing Roman varieties can be used to great effect in this capacity. One of the unique advantages of growing chamomile is its ability to thrive in a wide range of environments. It will grow successfully in containers, provided they have well-drained soil and regular watering. The Roman variety makes an excellent accent plant, while the German type does best when given the space to spread out and grow freely in a larger container.

Chamomile’s natural fragrance offers additional benefits, including resistance to various insects. This means that other plants growing nearby will also benefit from this protection.

Fertilization and Seed Propagation

When starting with seeds, get ready for an enjoyable experience. While direct sowing can work, transplants typically yield better results. To ensure the best possible start, grow your chamomile seeds indoors before transplanting them outside. Begin by preparing a seed starting medium and placing the seeds on top of it. Since light and warmth are essential for germination, this setup provides the perfect conditions.

No need to cover the seeds with growing medium; simply allow them to thrive in the provided environment. When planting multiple seeds per cell, be prepared to thin out the weakest plants once they reach one to two inches tall. This process allows the strongest seedling to remain, ensuring a healthier start for your chamomile plant. For optimal growth, place the seedlings in a sunny window or under grow lights, providing no more than 16 hours of light per day.

Chamomile requires eight hours of darkness, so be sure to give it time to rest. Fluorescent lighting is preferred over incandescent, as the former provides a gentler glow for young seedlings. When the seedlings are around three months old, you can start fertilizing them, but use only half the recommended amount on the fertilizer label. Chamomile tends to thrive in neglect, so it doesn’t require excessive feeding.

For those looking to grow their chamomile from seed, purchasing high-quality seeds from reputable vendors is essential. Roman chamomile seeds are available in various package sizes from True Leaf Market, while German chamomile seeds can be found in packets of 100 from Earthbeat Seeds. Once transplanted, chamomile still doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer input. It responds well to springtime treatment and occasional feeding during the growing season.

Fertilizers higher in nitrogen are particularly beneficial, as they cater to chamomile’s weak root system.

Pests and Other Problems

While M. chamomilla is generally hardy and robust, it’s not immune to pests and diseases. However, with proper care and attention to watering, many of these issues can be minimized. It’s worth noting that if you have allergies to ragweed or chrysanthemums, you may also be sensitive to chamomile. Pests like aphids and thrips can target the plant, while powdery mildew is a concern in hot and humid weather.

Mealybugs are another potential issue, although the plant is generally free from significant problems. Interestingly, chamomile can even be processed into an effective spray to help other garden plants thrive. To create this spray, brew a strong batch of tea, let it steep overnight, and use it the next day as a herbicide and mildew aid.

Harvesting and Herbal Tea

Harvesting the best chamomile requires some patience and attention to detail. The German variety of scented mayweed is ideal for tea, with leaves that are less bitter than other types. Simply pluck off the flower heads when you’re ready, as they begin to curl downward. While drying the flowers is an option, fresh ones work just as well. To dry them, separate the flower heads and lay them out on a cheesecloth or mesh surface with some space between each one.

Store your harvest in a cool, dry place for about a week to allow it to fully dry. When brewing tea, use two tablespoons of dried flowers per eight-ounce cup or four tablespoons of fresh flowers per cup. Steep the mixture for five minutes before straining and serving. You can adjust the strength to your liking by adding more or fewer flower heads. To customize your tea, consider adding a sprig of mint, a spoonful of honey, or even a dash of cinnamon.

For a soothing drink when you’re feeling under the weather, try combining four ounces of lemon juice with four ounces of chamomile tea and a tablespoon of honey. Chamomile tea has many benefits, including relieving upset stomachs, stress, and promoting better sleep. You can also apply cooled tea directly to irritated skin for relief. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rinse your hair with unsweetened tea to add shine.

Let It Go Wild

As the M. chamomilla flower grows wild, it’s a treat to behold. This vibrant and lively plant exudes joy and sunshine, making it a perfect addition to any garden. I’ve found it thrives when paired with wildflowers like aster, rudbeckia, and soldago. Whether you’re growing the annual German or perennial Roman variety, this lovely white flower is sure to delight. Pollinators adore its classic yellow-and-white color combination, which fits seamlessly into any landscape.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to grow and produces copious amounts of tea leaves – a bonus for any garden enthusiast. If you’ve had experience growing chamomile or have questions about how to get started, share your story in the comments below! For more tips on cultivating beautiful flowers in your garden, be sure to check out our comprehensive guides on growing cosmos, Mexican hat, and goldenrod.