How to grow Chamomile

Learn how to grow Chamomile with this easy-to-follow guide. This herb is a favourite for tea, and it's also great for relieving anxiety and insomnia.

Chamomile prefers rich, well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in. 

Plant Chamomile in a full sun position, or partial sun in hot climates. 

Chamomile will tolerates light frost. 

Plant Chamomile at least 30cm apart. 

Chamomile is best planted in spring. Seeds can be sown indoors in late winter and transplanted once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed.

Sprinkle seeds over the surface of the soil and very lightly cover with soil, or water them in and allow the seeds to sink into the soil naturally. Seeds that are planted too deeply will struggle to germinate.   

If transplanting a seedling, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn.  

Not usually required, however if plants are showing signs of nutrient deficiency than feed them with a light application of organic liquid fertiliser.

Harvest Chamomile flowers as needed. 

Chamomile plants are generally pest free, however can be affected by aphids. 

Chamomile plants are generally disease free. 

There are two types of Chamomile - Roman and German. Both varieties are commonly used for their medicinal properties. 

Roman Chamomile is a perennial, growing from the same rooting stems year after year. 

German Chamomile is an annual, so will have to be re-planted yearly. It will generally come back on it's own if left to self-seed in the garden. 

Chamomile flowers can be used fresh or dried to make tea and have great healing effects on the body.