Growing Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) from seeds is a relatively simple process. Roman Chamomile is a low-growing herb with small, daisy-like flowers and a pleasant apple-like scent. Here's a guide on how to grow Roman Chamomile from seeds:
1. Seed Selection:
2. Planting Time:
Sow Roman Chamomile seeds in the spring or early summer after the last frost has passed. This herb is a perennial, and it's best to establish it during the growing season.
3. Soil Preparation:
Chamomile prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 5.6 to 7.5).
Work organic matter into the soil to improve fertility.
4. Sowing Seeds:
Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared soil surface. Press the seeds lightly into the soil with your hand or a flat board.
Chamomile seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil. Instead, press them into the soil surface.
5. Sunlight:
Chamomile thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
6. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate.
Once the plants are established, chamomile is relatively drought-tolerant, and it's better to let the soil dry out between waterings.
7. Thin Seedlings:
Once the chamomile seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them to leave about 6 to 12 inches of space between plants. This helps prevent overcrowding.
8. Temperature:
Chamomile prefers cool to moderate temperatures. It can tolerate a light frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
9. Fertilization:
Chamomile doesn't require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time is usually sufficient.
10. Pruning:
Prune the plants periodically to encourage bushier growth and to prevent them from becoming too leggy.
Harvesting the flowers regularly also helps promote continuous blooming.
11. Harvesting:
Harvest the chamomile flowers when they are fully open. This is typically when the petals are flat or slightly reflexed.
Gather the flowers in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.
12. Container Gardening:
Roman Chamomile can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or as a ground cover.
13. Companion Planting:
Chamomile is known to attract beneficial insects and may help improve the flavor of neighboring plants.
Growing Roman Chamomile can be a lovely addition to your garden, and the flowers are often used to make a calming herbal tea. Enjoy the process of cultivating this aromatic herb!
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