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Chamomile

Matricaria chamomilla

Flower

German chamomile is known as the "physician of the garden" for its ability to improve the health and vigour of nearby plants. It accumulates calcium and potassium in its tissues, attracts hoverflies and beneficial wasps, and makes a soothing herbal tea.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining, lean loam; pH 5.6–7.5

Spacing

6–9 inches

Days to Maturity

60–65 days from sowing to flower

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

No known antagonists

When to Plant

  • Direct Sow

    Autumn or early spring; surface sow as seeds need light to germinate

  • Harvest

    Harvest flowers when fully open for tea; dry in a warm, airy space

Organic Growing Tips

  • Allow chamomile to self-seed throughout vegetable beds — it will establish as a beneficial ground layer.

  • Steep chamomile flowers in water and spray around seedlings to prevent damping-off fungal disease.

  • Traditionally believed to improve the essential oil production and flavour of herbs grown nearby.

  • Harvest flowers early in the morning after dew dries for the highest essential oil content.

Common Pests

  • Aphids
  • Slugs

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.