German Chamomile

Also know as common chamomile, this feathery-leaved plant is best known for its apple-like flavor and fragrance. German Chamomile is used in teas and medicinally as a sedative, nerve tonic, and skin cleanser. It has remarkable properties as a companion plant in making compost due to its affinity with calcium.  

800 seeds

PLANTING

Matricaria recutita

Annual

Germination: 10-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-70ºF

Seed Planting Depth:  Sow on the surface, seeds need light to germinate.

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 60-70ºF soil temperatures. Transplant into the garden after the last frost, 8-12” apart. 

Sowing Outdoors: After the last frost, very small seeds- sow seeds lightly in a prepared area, thin to 8-12” apart. Tip-Transplant the seedlings that are thinned out into other places in the garden. 

Growth Habit: Upright mounds

Height and Width: 15-20” x 24”  

Spacing: 8-12” apart

Light Needs: Full sun

Soil Needs: German Chamomile tolerates poor soil but grows best in average to fertile and well-drained soil  

Flowering: 60-70 days

Harvest: When flowers are in full bloom. Use fresh or dried. Dry flowers on a screen in a dark and dry well-ventilated space

Uses: Culinary, tea, medicinal, flowers attracts bees and beneficial insects.

Care: Avoid overwatering or waterlogged soil. Amend the planting area with compost before sowing or transplanting. 

Tips: Self-seeds. Pruning back after flowering keeps the plant looking tidy plus it helps it rebloom again. Grows well in containers