Chamomile
Small daisy-like flowers harvested for fragrant herbal tea.
Chamomile seeds
£2.49 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
March–May on the soil surface
Plant out
Pick flowers on dry days when fully open, then dry promptly.
Harvest
June–September
Conditions
Sun
Full sun to partial shade, at least 4-6 hours of sun for best flowering.
Water
Water regularly when establishing. Once mature, tolerates some dryness but performs best with consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging.
Soil
Average, well-draining soil. Prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Tolerant of poor soils.
Spacing
20-30cm between plants for good air circulation.
Containers
Excellent in pots, window boxes, and mixed containers. Use a pot at least 20cm in diameter.
Indoors
Can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost for an earlier display, but direct sowing is often preferred.
Care and harvest
Feeding
Generally not necessary. If growing in containers or poor soil, a balanced liquid feed once a month at half strength.
Pruning
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms and prevent excessive self-seeding (though volunteers are often welcome!).
Harvesting
Pick flowers on dry days when fully open, then dry promptly.
Storage
Flowers are best used fresh. Petals can be dried for tea or infused oils. Store dried petals in an airtight container.
Good companions: Tomatoes, Asparagus, Carrots, Peas