Chamomile is a widespread and often used – especially in the form of the popular chamomile tea – medicinal herb. In the kitchen, the pretty flowers decorate fresh salads, for example, from wild herbs. The undemanding annual herb can be easily planted in your own garden or on the balcony, so you can use your harvest yourself. As medicinal and culinary herbs relevant are only the true chamomile and Roman chamomile.
Contents
- 1 What kind of location prefers chamomile?
- 2 What substrate is optimal for chamomile?
- 3 When to sow chamomile?
- 4 Do you need to grow chamomile in advance?
- 5 How to sow chamomile?
- 6 Can I cultivate chamomile in pots?
- 7 When does chamomile bloom?
- 8 What parts of the plant can be harvested and used?
- 9 How does chamomile propagate?
- 10 Author
What kind of location prefers chamomile?
Chamomile loves the sun, which is why a location as sunny as possible is appropriate. Provided that it is bright enough, the plant also thrives very well in partial shade.
What substrate is optimal for chamomile?
Loamy to slightly sandy, preferably only slightly moist soil is best suited for cultivation. The pH value should be in the slightly acidic to basic range between 6.5 and 8. Black soil is also well suited.
When to sow chamomile?
Chamomile can be easily sown directly outdoors in both fall and spring. Chamomile sown in September will overwinter outdoors without problems, provided it is properly protected. Otherwise, the seeds are sown from the beginning of May. Before sowing, the soil should be well loosened and enriched with mature compost.
Do you need to grow chamomile in advance?
You can grow chamomile in advance on the windowsill from the beginning of March and put it outdoors from May.
How to sow chamomile?
Chamomile is a light germinator, which means that the seeds must not be covered with soil, but only pressed to the loosened substrate. The plantlets begin to grow after an average of only five days.
Can I cultivate chamomile in pots?
Yes, cultivation in pots is possible without any problems. However, make sure to water the plants regularly – but not too much. Chamomile likes it rather dry.
When does chamomile bloom?
True chamomile usually blooms between May and September.
What parts of the plant can be harvested and used?
Usually only the fresh or dried flower heads are harvested and used.
How does chamomile propagate?
Chamomile usually self-propagates by self-seeding.
Good neighbors / Bad neighbors
Chamomile mixes very well with kohlrabi, leeks and onions, as well as celery and various types of cabbage. Potatoes and nasturtiums also get along well in a mixed culture with true chamomile.
Tips & tricks
A lush planting of chamomile is particularly attractive as a border, e.g. for vegetable beds.
