How to Grow Chamomile

A cool-season herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

Chamomile is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Chamomile is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the chamomile page for exact timing.

Varieties

• German Chamomile, Annual, the classic tea flower (Botanical Interests)
• Roman Chamomile, Low perennial groundcover type (nurseries)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 20 cm (8 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 3 L per plant every 4 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids. In humid regions, Damping off can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Chamomile is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant chamomile where you garden.

See also: Chamomile in the plant library →

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