What to know
Chamomile , a soothing and aromatic herb , has been cherished for century for its medicative and culinary property . Planting chamomile flowers in your garden is arewarding experience , bringing beauty , perfume , and a sentience of tranquility to youroutdoor infinite . This comprehensive guide will supply you with all the essential info you need to successfully plant and cultivate Chamaemelum nobilis flowers .
Choosing the Right Chamomile Variety
There are two independent varieties of camomile : Roman chamomile(Chamaemelum nobile ) and German chamomile ( Matricaria recutita ) . Roman camomile is a perennial with daisy - like flowers and a sweet , fruity scent , while German Anthemis nobilis is an annual with smaller , cone - shaped peak and a more bitter taste . Both diverseness are suitable for plant in gardens , but R.C. camomile is more cold-blooded - hardy and can stomach fond shade .
Selecting the Ideal Location
Chamomile prefer well - drain soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . It thrives in full Dominicus but can also tolerate partial spook . select a localization that receive at least six hours of sunlight per daytime and hasgood air circulationto prevent fungal disease .
Preparing the Soil
Before planting , prepare the grime by till it to a depth of 12 - 18 inches . Add constitutional topic , such as compost or manure , toimprove drainageand fertility . If the soil is heavy or clay - like , count adding some guts to improve drainage .
Sowing Chamomile Seeds
Chamaemelum nobilis seed are very small , so it ’s best to sow them directly in the garden rather than begin them indoors . Sow theseeds thinly , spacing them about 6 inches apart . Cover them softly with filth and gently press down to assure good contact .
Germination and Care
camomile seed typically sprout within 7 - 14 years . Keep the soil moist but not quaggy during this period . Once the seedlings have emerged , melt off them out to thedesired spacing . weewee regularly , especially during hot , dry weather .
Fertilizing Chamomile Plants
Chamomile plant life do notrequire heavy fertilization . Alight applicationof abalanced fertilizer , such as 10 - 10 - 10 , can be applied once or twice during the grow time of year . Avoid over - fertilizing , as it can raise excessive foliage growth and reduce efflorescence .
Watering Chamomile Plants
Chamomile plants are relatively drought - tolerant , but they will produce more blossom if they arewatered regularly . Water deeply , especially duringdry spells , and allow the soil to dry out out slightly between lachrymation .
Harvesting Chamomile Flowers
Chamomile flowers are ready to harvest when they are full open and the petals have start to curl inward . glean the flower by cutting the stems just below the flower straits . Dry the blossom in a strong , well - ventilated placeuntil they are wholly ironic .
Enjoying Chamomile Flowers
dry out chamomile flowers can be used tomake teas , tinctures , and other herbal remedies . They can also be add together to potpourris , sachets , and other place fragrances . Thefresh flowerscan be used togarnish salads , afters , and other dishes .
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can Igrow chamomilein containers?A : Yes , chamomile can be grown in containers . Use a well - draining potting mixandprovide plentyof sunlight . Q : How long does it take for camomile to flower?A : Chamomile typically flowerswithin 6 - 8 weeks after planting . Q : Can I use chamomile flowers fresh?A : Yes , saucy chamomile flowerscan be used togarnish salad , afters , and other smasher . They can also be added to mixed bag and sachets . Q : How do I stash away dried chamomile flowers?A : Store dry chamomile flowersin anairtight containerin a nerveless , dark place . They will retain their flavor and aroma for up to a year . Q : Can Imake camomile teafrom refreshful flowers?A : Yes , you may make chamomile tea fromfresh bloom . plainly unconscionable 1 - 2 tablespoons of saucy chamomile heyday in a cupful ofhot waterfor 5 - 10 minutes .
