How to Grow Chamomiles: The Complete Guide

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a easy-to-grow cool-season herb that thrives in USDA zones 3-9. With the right soil, sunlight, and care, you can harvest fresh chamomile in as little as 60-65 days. This guide covers everything you need to know about growing chamomile at home—from planting to harvest.

Overview

Chamomile's dainty daisy-like flowers produce one of the world's most beloved herbal teas, with a gentle apple-like sweetness and calming properties. This charming herb self-seeds freely, creating carpets of tiny white blooms.

When and How to Plant Chamomiles

Start indoors: 6 weeks before last frost. Chamomile needs full to partial sun and well-drained, ph 5.6-7.5 to thrive. Plant seeds at Surface sow depth with 8-12 in between plants.

• Sowing depth: Surface sow
• Plant spacing: 8-12 in
• Germination time: 7-14 days
• Days to harvest: 60-65 days
• Best soil: Well-drained, pH 5.6-7.5
• Season: Cool season — zones 3-9

Care and Maintenance

Chamomile requires moderate watering and full to partial sun. Consistent moisture is especially important during the growing season when roots are establishing.

• Watering: Moderate — water deeply at the base, not overhead, to prevent leaf disease
• Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches of straw or shredded leaves to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Feeding: Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks during active growth
• Watch for deficiencies: Yellow leaves = nitrogen, purple stems = phosphorus, brown leaf edges = potassium

Pro Tips

Harvest flowers when petals begin to fold back. Dry quickly in a warm, airy spot. German chamomile self-sows prolifically—expect it to return even as an annual.

Companion Planting for Chamomiles

Companion planting improves chamomile health and yield by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, and improving soil. Plant chamomile alongside these proven companions:

Avoid planting near: These plants compete for nutrients, attract the same pests, or inhibit chamomile growth:

Common Pests and Diseases

Watch for these common problems when growing chamomile. Early identification and organic prevention methods are key to keeping your plants healthy:

Learn more in our Organic Pest Control Guide.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest chamomile is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Chamomile is typically ready to harvest in 60-65 days from planting.

• Harvest timing: Most home gardeners find that harvesting slightly early produces better flavor than letting crops over-mature
• Best time of day: Harvest in the morning when plants are cool and turgid for longest shelf life
• Storage: See our Harvesting and Preserving Guide for freezing, canning, and drying methods

Recommended Varieties

These are the best chamomile varieties for home gardeners, selected for flavor, disease resistance, and ease of growing:

Frequently Asked Questions About Chamomiles

How long does it take to grow chamomile?

Chamomile takes 60-65 days from planting to harvest. Germination takes 7-14 days. Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier harvests.

What zones can you grow chamomile in?

Chamomile grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. It is a cool-season crop that needs full to partial sun.

What should I plant next to chamomile?

Good companions for chamomile include Cabbage, Onions, Wheat, Mint. Avoid planting near None significant.

How much sun does chamomile need?

Chamomile requires full to partial sun. Plant in well-drained, ph 5.6-7.5 with 8-12 in spacing between plants.

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