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How to Grow Chamomile

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

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Amazon True Leaf

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Supplies You'll Need

Seed Starting Trays Seed Starting Mix Grow Lights Heat Mat Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Matricaria chamomilla
Category herb
Days to Maturity 60 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Regular

Germination

7-14 days

Ready to Grow Chamomile?

Find quality seeds from trusted suppliers.

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Seed Saving Guide

Easy
Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Let flowers dry completely on the plant — seeds form in the center of the dried flower.

Processing

Rub dried flower heads between palms over a bowl, then winnow to remove chaff.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Chamomile self-sows freely — once established, you may not need to save seed at all.

Seed Storage Supplies

Seed Envelopes Mylar Storage Bags Silica Gel Packets Seed Organizer

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Chamomile Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Chamomile Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Chamomile? +

Start Chamomile seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Chamomile take to grow? +

Chamomile typically matures in about 60 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Chamomile indoors or direct sow? +

Chamomile should be started indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Chamomile need? +

Chamomile requires full sun to thrive.

How much water does Chamomile need? +

Chamomile has regular water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Chamomile? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Chamomile is rated easy. Let flowers dry completely on the plant — seeds form in the center of the dried flower. Rub dried flower heads between palms over a bowl, then winnow to remove chaff.

How long do Chamomile seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Chamomile seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Chamomile seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Chamomile is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the few seeds that need light to germinate and is considered an excellent companion to nearly anything grown in the garden. It is best when it's planted outdoors in August by spreading the seed and mixing it very lightly with soil. Improves the flavor of cabbage, cucumber, and onions. Helps accumulate calcium, potassium, and sulfur in the soil. If you leave some of the flowers unpicked it will reseed itself.

Expect your Chamomile to be ready for harvest in approximately 60 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.