Good yields of small, sweet smelling, daisy-like flowers.
Harvest using the Chamomile Rake.
German Camomile is frequently used as a tonic for the treatment of stomach ailments,
Contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, tea can be used to aid fungal problems in cucurbit crops
Prepared in a similar way to the closely related Roman Chamomile aka English Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Matricaria recutita
DAYS TO GERMINATION: 10-14 days.
SOWING: Transplant (recommended): Seeds should be started indoors in flats 4-6 weeks before transplanting out. Press seeds gently into the surface of the growing medium, but do not cover as they require light for germination. Mist to keep the soil surface moist. Keep flats at alternating temperatures of 20C during the day and 30C at night until germination. Transplant when seedlings are 12mm tall with 3-4 true leaves, as older seedlings do not transplant well. The final spacing should be 20cm apart in rows 45cm apart.
Direct seed: Direct seed as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Scatter the seeds in a narrow band and cover shallowly, as seeds require light to germinate. Keep moist until germination. Thin to clusters of 2-3 plants spaced 20cm apart in rows 45cm apart.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: A fertile, well-drained, sandy loam.
PLANT HEIGHT: 35-60cm.
PLANT SPACING: 20cm.
HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.
HARVEST: Gather flowers when in full bloom. Three to four cuttings are possible in one growing season. To dry, place flower heads one layer deep on a screen in a dry place out of direct sunlight and with good ventilation. Stir periodically over several days until dry.
Note: Chamomile self-sows readily. May become invasive if allowed to do so.
