Introduction
Growing chamomile indoors is a delightful and rewarding experience for both novice and experienced gardeners. Not only is chamomile easy to grow, but it’s also known for its lovely fragrance, medicinal uses, and calming properties. Whether you’re a fan of its soothing tea or just want a beautiful houseplant, learning how to grow chamomile indoors is a great way to enjoy this herb year-round.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, from selecting the right type of chamomile to harvesting the delicate flowers. You’ll also learn how to provide optimal growing conditions, avoid common problems like powdery mildew, and make the most of chamomile’s many uses.
Why Grow Chamomile Indoors?
If you’ve been contemplating whether to grow chamomile indoors, here’s why you should! Not only can you enjoy the herb’s sweet fragrance and daisy-like flowers, but chamomile is also packed with health benefits.
From easing anxiety to soothing stomach issues, chamomile is a must-have medicinal herb for any home garden.
Benefits of Growing Chamomile Indoors
- Year-Round Access: No need to wait for late spring or early summer—grow fresh chamomile anytime.
- Space-Saving: Perfect for apartments, small pots, or compact herb gardens.
- Health Perks: Fresh chamomile can be brewed into chamomile tea to aid digestion, ease hay fever, and promote relaxation.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Chamomile’s delicate, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers make a lovely addition to any indoor space.
- Versatility: Chamomile can be used for herbal remedies, essential oil extraction, and even as a fragrant ground cover in larger containers.
The Ideal Environment for Chamomile
Chamomile thrives in a sunny, warm environment with well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t need much water—just a bit of attention and little care.
Let’s dive into how to set up the perfect conditions for your chamomile to flourish indoors.
Choosing the Right Chamomile Variety
Not all chamomile is created equal! There are two main types of chamomile, and choosing the right one is key to a successful indoor garden.
Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum Nobile)
- Perennial: Lives for multiple years—perfect if you want a long-term plant.
- Growth Habit: Low-growing chamomile plants that creep along the surface of the soil—great for containers or even as a chamomile lawn.
- Flavor: Milder, apple-like taste.
- Other Names: English chamomile, lawn chamomile, or Flore Pleno (a double-flowered variety).
- Best Use: Ideal as a ground cover or for a continuous indoor herb garden.
German Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita)
- Annual Plant: Completes its lifecycle in one year—best for harvesting large quantities of chamomile flowers.
- Growth Habit: Taller, bushy growth—ideal for fresh flowers and herbal remedies.
- Flavor: Stronger, more potent taste for teas and essential oil production.
- Other Names: Wild chamomile or Matricaria Chamomilla.
- Best Use: Great for making chamomile tea, herbal medicine, and essential oil extraction.
For indoor growing, annual German chamomile is often a good choice due to its abundant flower production.
Preparing for Indoor Chamomile Planting
Choosing the Perfect Container
Chamomile isn’t picky, but it loves space to stretch its roots. Choose a pot that:
- Is at least 6-8 inches deep to allow proper root growth.
- Has good drainage with plenty of drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
- Is made from ceramic or terracotta—self-watering pots can also be helpful during dry spells.
- Consider using small seed starters for germinating and a larger pot for mature plants.
Soil Selection
Chamomile flourishes in light, well-drained soil. Avoid heavy or compacted soils that trap moisture.
Best Potting Mix for Chamomile
- Light and Airy: Use a standard potting mix blended with sand or perlite.
- pH Level: Aim for slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.6 – 7.5).
- Poor Soil? No Problem! Chamomile actually thrives in nutrient-poor soil and similar conditions.
Steps for Planting Chamomile Indoors
Starting from Seeds
- Fill Your Pot: Add your well-draining potting mix, leaving an inch of space at the top.
- Sow the Seeds: Lightly sprinkle chamomile seeds on the surface of the soil—don’t bury them deeply as they need light to germinate and gently tap them so they connect with the soil.
- Mist the Soil: Gently water using a spray bottle to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Cover and Wait: Use plastic wrap or a humidity dome to lock in moisture until germination (7-14 days).
- Place in Light: Position your pot in a south-facing window with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A grow light can help in darker months.
Transplanting Chamomile Seedlings
If you’re starting with young chamomile plants, here’s how to transplant them:
- Prep the Pot: Ensure your container has good drainage and fresh potting mix.
- Gently Remove Seedlings: Be careful not to damage the fragile roots.
- Plant and Water: Place seedlings 2-3 inches apart, gently firm the soil, and water thoroughly.
Caring for Your Indoor Chamomile Plant
Watering Needs
Chamomile likes a “Goldilocks” approach—not too dry, not too wet.
- Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Method: Use a watering can or spray bottle to moisten the soil evenly.
- Dry Weather: Chamomile is drought-tolerant but appreciates consistent watering after the soil has dried.
Lighting Requirements
Chamomile thrives in bright, direct light, but it can tolerate partial shade.
- Natural Light: A south-facing window is ideal.
- Grow Lights: Use a full-spectrum grow light for 12-14 hours if natural light is limited.
Temperature Preferences
Chamomile prefers a cozy environment between 60-68°F (15-20°C). Keep it away from drafts or extreme heat.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
- Aphids: Rinse off with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Powdery Mildew: Avoid overwatering, improve air circulation, and keep the plant in a dry spot.
Harvesting Chamomile
One amazing aspect of indoor chamomile growing is the ability to harvest flowers year-round. Pick the flower heads when they are fully open with white petals and bright yellow centers.
You can also use clippers or scissors to harvest the flowers as well. Use them fresh, or dry and save them for later.
FAQs
1. How long does chamomile take to grow indoors?
Chamomile typically germinates in 7-14 days and blooms within 6-8 weeks after planting.
2. Can I grow chamomile indoors year-round?
Absolutely! As long as you provide adequate light and consistent temperatures, chamomile will thrive indoors year-round.
3. Does chamomile need direct sunlight?
Yes! Chamomile loves 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If that’s not possible, use a grow light to keep it happy.
4. How do I prevent mold on my chamomile plant?
Avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and provide good air circulation to prevent mold growth.
5. Can I use fresh chamomile flowers for tea?
Definitely! Fresh or dried, chamomile flowers make a calming herbal tea that’s perfect for unwinding.
Conclusion
Growing chamomile indoors is easier than you might think! With the right variety, a sunny spot, and a bit of TLC, you’ll have a fresh supply of fragrant flowers all year. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of brewing a cup of homegrown chamomile tea.
Why not start your indoor chamomile garden today? Your future self will thank you with every soothing sip.
Disclaimer
The materials and the information contained on the TriGardening Blog are provided for general and educational purposes only and do not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. None of the information on our blog is a substitute for a diagnosis and treatment by your health professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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