Cultivating Chamomile in Containers: A Guide to Growing Chamomile in Potted Plants
Chamomile, a popular herb known for its delicate, daisy-like flowers, can thrive in containers, making it an ideal choice for those with limited garden space. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow and care for chamomile in pots.
Planting Chamomile
Start by filling a pot with quality potting mix, moisten it, and sprinkle seeds on top. Gently press the seeds into the mix, and keep the mix moist. Place the pot in a spot with at least six hours of bright light per day. When seedlings have two mature leaves, thin them out, leaving just one healthy plant per container. Starting from seeds is a better choice to avoid issues associated with transplanting seedlings.
Choosing the Right Container
Terracotta containers work well for chamomile growth due to their ability to allow air and water to flow through the soil and roots. Ensure your container has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Lighting
Chamomile prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Ensure the container receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to promote healthy growth and flowering essential for harvest.
Temperature and Humidity
Chamomile thrives best in moderate temperatures around 60-68°F (15-20°C). It prefers low to moderate humidity levels with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases common in high humidity. Avoid excessive heat and dry spells; protect plants in hot weather with shade cloths and mulching to maintain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Watering
Water chamomile moderately, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot or fungal problems, while underwatering stresses the plant. In containers, consistent moisture retention is crucial, so avoid letting the soil completely dry out or stay soggy.
Fertilizer
Chamomile generally does not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, dilute fertilizer sparingly during the growing season to avoid excessive foliage growth that may reduce flower production. Overfertilizing can make plants weak and prone to sunburn or disease.
Common Problems
Watch for fungal diseases exacerbated by high humidity and poor ventilation. Yellowing leaves with brown, crispy edges or wilting may indicate heat stress, improper watering, or overfertilizing. Good air circulation and proper watering regimes mitigate these risks. Pests are generally minimal but inspect regularly.
Harvesting
Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open but before they start to wilt. Quick rinsing with cool water removes dirt or insects. Dry the flowers in a well-ventilated, shaded area out of direct sunlight to preserve quality. Drying methods include air drying for days to weeks, oven drying at low temperatures (~100°F), or using a dehydrator. Store dried chamomile in airtight containers to protect from moisture and light to maintain shelf life.
In summary, grow container chamomile in a sunny spot with moderate temperature and humidity, water moderately, fertilize sparingly, monitor and prevent fungal problems, and harvest flowers at full bloom followed by careful drying and storage. This care routine ensures healthy growth and a good-quality herbal harvest.
Remember, Roman chamomile is a good choice for container growth as it only grows to about a foot (30 cm) tall. About one inch (2.5 cm) of water per week is ideal for potted chamomile. Happy growing!
Transplanting seedlings in the right container is crucial for growing chamomile, as starting from seeds and avoiding transplant issues can improve success. A terracotta pot with drainage holes provides the best home-and-garden environment for chamomile, helping maintain the appropriate soil conditions and reducing the risk of waterlogging.
Gardening enthusiasts who follow a lifestyle centered on sustainability and home-and-garden projects will appreciate the advantages of growing chamomile in pots, as it offers an efficient use of space and the opportunity to cultivate this popular herb in gardens of any size.
