German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

German Chamomile is the most common chamomile and is often used in teas.

How to Grow German Chamomile from Seed

Bed Preparation

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an annual herb while Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is perennial. Both types prefer full sun to partial shade and do best in well-drained soil.

Planting

Chamomile seed can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed. Optimal soil temperatures for germination are 65-85°F. Sow seeds 3-4" apart on the soil surface and press lightly to settle. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Thin seedlings so mature plants are 4-6" apart. Seed can also be direct seeded outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

Harvest

Harvest chamomile while plants are flowering (60-90 days). Remove flowers only by hand or snip flowers with 2-3" of stem intact. Chamomile flowers and flowering tops can be used fresh or dried in teas, salads, or to decorate cakes.