Learn all about chamomile seeds—from planting and care to harvesting flowers and seeds. Ashley Scott shares 10+ years of gardening tips for US growers!
Hey there, gardening friends! I’m Ashley Scott, and with over 10 years of gardening experience under my belt, I’m excited to share everything I know about chamomile seeds. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping homegrown chamomile tea or adding a splash of delicate beauty to your garden, starting with chamomile seeds is a fantastic way to go. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what they are, how to grow them, where to find them, and so much more—all in a way that’s easy to follow and fun to read. Let’s dig in!
Introduction to Chamomile and Its Seeds
If you’ve ever enjoyed a warm cup of chamomile tea to unwind after a long day, you’ve already met this amazing herb. Chamomile is a small, daisy-like plant with feathery leaves and flowers that pack a calming punch. But here’s the cool part: growing it yourself from chamomile seeds is super rewarding and surprisingly simple.
I still remember the first time I planted chamomile seeds in my backyard. I scattered them in a sunny spot, and within a couple of weeks, tiny green sprouts popped up like magic. Fast forward a few months, and I had a patch of cheerful white and yellow blooms. That experience hooked me, and now I’m here to help you get started on your own chamomile journey.
So, why grow from chamomile seeds? For one, it’s budget-friendly. Plus, you get to pick the exact variety you want and watch the whole process unfold—from seed to flower. Whether you’re a newbie gardener or a seasoned pro, this guide has everything you need to know about chamomile seeds, from planting to harvesting and beyond.
Types of Chamomile: German vs. Roman
Before you grab your chamomile seeds, let’s clear up a common question: What’s the difference between German and Roman chamomile? Both are awesome, but they’re a little different, and knowing which one suits your needs can make all the difference.
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):
This is the variety I grow most often. It’s an annual, meaning it lives for just one season, but it self-seeds like a champ—meaning you might see it pop up again next year without replanting. It grows taller (up to 2-3 feet) and produces tons of flowers, making it perfect for tea. If you’re after a big harvest, this is your go-to.
Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile):
This one’s a perennial, so it comes back year after year. It’s shorter and spreads out, which makes it great as a ground cover or border plant. The flowers are a bit smaller, but the scent is stronger, and it’s often used in landscaping.
Here’s a question I get a lot: Is chamomile a perennial? Well, it depends! Roman chamomile is, while German chamomile isn’t. I love German chamomile for its tea-making potential, but if you want a low-maintenance plant that sticks around, Roman chamomile might be your pick.
Where to Buy Chamomile Seeds
Ready to get your hands on some chamomile seeds? Quality matters, so here’s where I recommend looking:
- Online Retailers: Places like Eden Brothers offer a great selection of both German and Roman chamomile seeds. Other awesome options include Burpee, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, and Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds. Check the packaging date to ensure freshness—fresh seeds germinate better.
- Local Garden Centers: Pop into your nearby nursery or garden store. They often carry chamomile seeds, and you can chat with staff about what works best in your area. I’ve scored some great finds this way!
- Gardening Communities: Sometimes, local gardening clubs or seed swaps have unique varieties. It’s a fun way to connect with other plant lovers.
When buying, double-check the label to confirm you’re getting German or Roman chamomile, depending on your goal. Organic seeds are a bonus if you’re into chemical-free gardening. Want more seed-buying tips? Check out my Seed Starting Basics guide on USA Garden Hub!
How to Grow Chamomile from Seeds
Now, let’s get to the fun part: how to grow chamomile from seeds! It’s easier than you might think, and I’ve got a step-by-step plan to set you up for success.
When to Plant
Timing depends on where you live. In most US zones, start chamomile seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost date (find yours at USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map). Or, sow them directly outside after frost danger passes. In warmer climates, fall planting works too.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Prep the Soil: Chamomile likes light, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.6-7.5. In the garden, loosen the soil about 6 inches deep. For pots, use a quality potting mix.
- Sow the Seeds: Here’s a key tip—chamomile seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them! Scatter them on the soil surface and press lightly. Space rows 12-18 inches apart if you’re planting a bunch.
- Water Gently: Keep the soil moist but not soaked. I use a spray bottle to mist the seeds so they don’t wash away. Once seedlings sprout, water more deeply.
- Light It Up: Full sun is best, though chamomile tolerates partial shade. Indoors, use grow lights or a sunny windowsill.
- Thin Them Out: When seedlings have a few leaves, thin them to 6-8 inches apart for healthy growth.
Germination takes 7-14 days. Be patient—those little sprouts are worth the wait! For more details, the University of Maryland Extension has great resources on herb growing.
Caring for Chamomile Plants
Once your chamomile plants are growing, they’re pretty low-maintenance—my kind of plant! Here’s how to keep them happy:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially when they’re young. Once established, chamomile can handle some drought. Water at the base to avoid wet leaves.
- Fertilizing: Less is more here. Too much fertilizer means fewer flowers. I add a bit of compost at planting and call it good.
- Weeding: Pull weeds early so they don’t steal nutrients. A weed-free patch keeps chamomile thriving.
- Pests and Diseases: Aphids or spider mites might show up—blast them off with water or use organic soap. Powdery mildew can hit if it’s too humid; space plants well and skip overhead watering.
Chamomile also plays nice with other plants. Pair it with veggies like onions or cabbage—learn more in my Companion Planting with Herbs guide!
Harvesting Chamomile Flowers and Seeds
The payoff! Here’s how to harvest chamomile flowers and seeds like a pro.
Harvesting Flowers
- When: Pick flowers when they’re fully open, usually in the morning after dew dries. For German chamomile, start when plants hit 4-6 inches.
- How: Pinch off the flower heads with your fingers or snip with scissors. Leave stems to encourage more blooms.
- Drying: Spread flowers on a screen in a warm, dark spot to dry. Store in an airtight jar for tea later.
Harvesting Seeds
Want to save chamomile seeds for next year? Let some flowers dry on the plant until they turn brown. Shake or rub them gently to release the seeds, then store in a cool, dry place. The Missouri Botanical Garden has more on seed-saving if you’re curious.
Using Chamomile Flowers
So, you’ve grown and harvested your chamomile—what now? Here are my favorite ways to use those flowers:
- Chamomile Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Add honey if you like. It’s my go-to after a long gardening day.
- Beyond Tea: Toss flowers into a bath for a relaxing soak, mix them into potpourri, or try them in DIY skincare. Chamomile’s calming vibe is legendary—check out WebMD for its benefits.
Common Problems and Solutions
Chamomile’s easygoing, but hiccups happen. Here’s what to watch for:
- Pests: Aphids or mites? Spray them off or use insecticidal soap.
- Diseases: Powdery mildew or root rot? Improve air flow and drainage.
- Growing Issues: Too much shade = weak plants. Move them to sun if possible.
Most fixes are simple, so don’t stress—your chamomile will bounce back!
Conclusion
Growing chamomile seeds is a joyride from start to finish. Whether you’re sipping tea from your harvest or admiring a flower-filled garden, it’s a win-win. With a little sun, some care, and my tips, you’re all set to grow this gem yourself.
Have you tried growing chamomile before? Got a favorite way to use the flowers? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you. Happy gardening!