Real chamomile is a widespread and often used medicinal herb - especially in the form of the popular chamomile tea. In the kitchen, the pretty flowers decorate fresh salads, for example made from wild herbs. The undemanding, annual herb can be easily grown in your own garden or on the balcony, so that you can use your harvest yourself. The only relevant medicinal and culinary herbs are real chamomile and Roman chamomile.
How to grow chamomile successfully?
Chamomile is sown directly outdoors, either in autumn or from the beginning of May. The seeds should be scattered on loosened, slightly acidic to alkaline substrate and not covered, as chamomile is a light germinator. If necessary, the plant can also be cultivated in pots.
Which location does chamomile prefer?
The chamomile loves the sun, which is why it should be placed in as sunny a location as possible. If it is bright enough, the plant thrives very well even in partial shade.
Which substrate is optimal for chamomile?
Loamy to slightly sandy, if possible only slightly moist soil is best suited for cultivation. The pH value should be in the slightly acidic to basic range between 6.5 and 8. Black earth is also suitable.
When is chamomile sown?
Chamomile can easily be sown directly outdoors in both autumn and spring. Chamomile sown in September will overwinter outdoors without any problems, provided it is appropriately protected. Otherwise, the seeds are sown from the beginning of May. Before sowing, the soil should be loosened well and enriched with mature compost.
Does chamomile have to be preferred?
You can grow chamomile on the windowsill from the beginning of March and put it outside from May.
How to sow chamomile?
Chamomile is a light germinator, i.e. H. The seeds must not be covered with soil, but rather pressed against the loosened substrate. The plants begin to grow after an average of five days.
Can I also grow chamomile in pots?
Yes, cultivation in pots is possible without any problems. However, make sure to water the plants regularly - but not too much. Chamomile prefers it dry.
When does chamomile bloom?
The real chamomile usually blooms between May and September.
Which plant parts can be harvested and used?
Usually only the fresh or dried flower heads are harvested and used.
How does chamomile multiply?
Chamomile usually propagates itself through self-sowing.
Good neighbors / Bad neighbors
Chamomile goes very well with kohlrabi, leeks and onions as well as celery and various types of cabbage. Potatoes and nasturtiums also get along well in a mixed culture with chamomile.
Tips & Tricks
A lush planting with chamomile as a bed border is particularly pretty, e.g. B. from vegetable beds.