Chamomile can be grown in a garden, and it’s a lovely addition to any landscape. Whether you choose to grow chamomile from seeds or purchase young plants, you can successfully transplant them into your garden in the spring and early summer.
One option is to start chamomile from seeds. This allows you to have full control over the growing process from the very beginning. Start by sowing the seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. You can use seed trays or small pots filled with a good quality seed starting mix. Scatter the seeds on top of the soil and lightly press them down, but don’t cover them with soil as they need light to germinate.
Keep the soil consistently moist by misting it with water or using a spray bottle. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location, ideally around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Germination usually takes about 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have grown a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots to allow for further growth.
If you prefer a more convenient option, you can also purchase young chamomile plants from nurseries or garden centers. These are typically sold in pots or as plug plants. When purchasing, look for healthy plants with green leaves and no signs of disease or pests.
Before transplanting chamomile into your garden, it’s important to harden them off first. This process helps acclimatize the plants to outdoor conditions gradually, preventing shock and ensuring their survival. About a week before you plan to transplant, start by placing the plants outdoors in a sheltered location for a few hours each day. Gradually increase the time and exposure to sunlight over the course of the week.
When selecting a location for your chamomile plants, choose a spot that receives full sun or partial shade. Chamomile prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to prepare the planting area by loosening the soil and adding organic matter or compost to improve drainage.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the chamomile plant. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill the hole around the plant with soil, firming it gently to eliminate any air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly after transplanting to help settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.
Chamomile plants should be spaced about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety. This allows them enough room to spread and grow without overcrowding each other.
Once the chamomile plants are in the ground, continue to water them regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater, as chamomile prefers slightly drier conditions. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
In terms of care, chamomile is relatively low-maintenance. Regular deadheading of faded flowers will encourage more blooms and prevent the plants from going to seed too quickly. Chamomile is also known to attract beneficial insects such as bees, so it can be a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
Growing chamomile in a garden is definitely possible, whether you start from seeds or purchase young plants. By following the appropriate transplanting techniques, providing the right growing conditions, and giving them proper care, you can enjoy a beautiful and fragrant chamomile patch in your garden.
