I’ve tried growing chamomile three times. The first one did not germinate, and the second one didn’t make it out of the germination tray. Below is a picture of the third one.

Clearly, it’s not the best plant out there, but considering it’s my first successfully flowering chamomile from seeds, I’m happy with it. I know the next one will be much better, especially after this comprehensive research.

But why Chamomile?

Chamomile is an herb that is well-known for its various medicinal and therapeutic properties. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for several health issues. There are two common types of chamomile:

1. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Also known as blue chamomile, it is an annual plant with small, daisy-like flowers. It is widely used in herbal teas and as an essential oil.
2. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): Also known as English chamomile, it is a perennial plant with similar daisy-like flowers. Roman chamomile is also used in teas and essential oils, but it has a slightly different aroma compared to German chamomile.

Health Benefits and Uses: Chamomile has numerous potential health benefits and is used for various purposes, including:

1. Relaxation and Sleep: Chamomile is often consumed as a tea before bedtime to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It is believed to have mild sedative properties that can help with insomnia and anxiety.
2. Digestive Aid: Chamomile tea is commonly used to soothe digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. It may help calm the stomach and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and provide relief from conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
4. Skin Care: Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it useful for skincare. It is often found in skincare products like creams and lotions, as it can help soothe skin irritations and reduce redness.
5. Menstrual Relief: Some women find chamomile tea beneficial for relieving menstrual cramps and discomfort during their periods.
6. Immune Support: Chamomile contains antioxidants that can support the immune system and help the body combat infections and illnesses.
7. Hair Care: Chamomile can be used to enhance the appearance of hair, particularly for those with light-colored hair. Chamomile-infused hair products can add shine and lighten hair slightly over time.

Precautions: While chamomile is generally safe for most people, some individuals may be allergic to it. If you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed, marigolds, or daisies), you should exercise caution when using chamomile. Pregnant women should also consult their healthcare provider before consuming chamomile in large amounts.

Conclusion: Chamomile is a versatile and widely used herb that offers various health benefits. Whether enjoyed as a soothing tea or used in skincare products, chamomile remains a popular choice for natural remedies and relaxation techniques. As with any herbal supplement or remedy, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers. The two most common types of chamomile used for various purposes are German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).

Chamomile is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in various climates. However, the ideal growing conditions may vary depending on the specific type of chamomile being cultivated.

German Chamomile:

• prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade
• well-drained soil with moderate fertility
• thrives in cool to temperate climates

Roman Chamomile:

• can tolerate partial shade and prefers cooler temperatures
• well-drained soil with moderate moisture
• can tolerate less fertile soil than German chamomile

Propagation: Chamomile can be propagated from seeds or by dividing mature plants. It’s common to sow chamomile seeds directly into the garden bed or containers in the spring, after the last frost has passed.

Planting: For both types of chamomile, space the seeds or seedlings apart, providing enough room for the plants to spread as they grow. Adequate spacing also helps improve airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Watering: Chamomile plants prefer moderate watering, and they should be watered at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to let the soil dry slightly between watering sessions.

Harvesting: Chamomile flowers are typically harvested when they are fully open, usually in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. Harvesting can be done by handpicking the flowers or using scissors.

Drying and Storage: After harvesting, chamomile flowers should be dried thoroughly to preserve their medicinal properties. Spread the flowers in a single layer on a clean, dry surface, and store them in airtight containers once fully dried.

Life Cycle:

1. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

• German Chamomile is an annual plant, meaning it completes its entire life cycle within one growing season.
• Germination: The life cycle begins with the germination of chamomile seeds, which typically takes around 7 to 14 days under optimal conditions.
• Vegetative Growth: After germination, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, where it develops leaves, stems, and roots.
• Flowering: The most crucial stage of the life cycle is the flowering phase. German Chamomile produces small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers. Flowering typically occurs after about 6 to 8 weeks of growth.
• Seed Production: Once the flowers are pollinated, they develop seeds. The seeds mature and are ready for harvesting at the end of the growing season.
• Senescence and Seed Dispersal: As the growing season comes to an end, the plant starts to senesce, and the leaves and stems begin to wither. Eventually, the seeds are dispersed to the ground, where they may self-seed and prepare for the next growing season.

2. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile):

• Roman Chamomile is a perennial plant, which means it can live for several years and regrow each spring.
• Germination: Similar to German Chamomile, the life cycle starts with the germination of chamomile seeds, taking around 7 to 14 days under suitable conditions.
• Vegetative Growth: After germination, the plant goes through a vegetative growth stage, where it establishes its root system and foliage.
• Flowering: Roman Chamomile also produces daisy-like flowers, and flowering occurs during its growing season. The flowers develop and are typically harvested for use.
• Seed Production and Self-Seeding: Unlike German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile has the ability to self-seed. It produces seeds after flowering, and these seeds can fall to the ground and germinate, leading to new plants in subsequent growing seasons.
• Dormancy and Regrowth: During colder months or adverse conditions, Roman Chamomile may become dormant. As spring approaches, it regrows from the existing root system or newly germinated seeds to begin a new growing season.

Reproduction:

Chamomile plants are not male or female; they are hermaphroditic, which means they have both male and female reproductive organs within the same flower. As mentioned earlier, chamomile flowers are considered bisexual or “perfect” flowers because they contain both male and female reproductive structures.

The presence of both male (stamens) and female (pistil) reproductive organs within the same flower allows chamomile plants to undergo self-pollination, where pollen from the stamens can fertilize the ovules in the same flower’s pistil. Additionally, cross-pollination can occur when pollen is transferred from the stamens of one flower to the pistil of another flower on the same or a different chamomile plant.

This hermaphroditic nature of chamomile flowers ensures that they can produce seeds and reproduce without relying on other plants for pollination, making them capable of self-sustaining and perpetuating their population.

Growing Culture:

Space:

The space required for a full-grown chamomile plant can vary depending on the specific type of chamomile (German Chamomile or Roman Chamomile) and the growing conditions. Here are some general guidelines for the spacing of full-grown chamomile plants:

1. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

• German Chamomile is an annual plant that can reach a height of around 15 to 60 centimeters (6 to 24 inches) and can spread to about 30 to 90 centimeters (12 to 36 inches).
• For individual plants, a spacing of about 15 to 30 centimeters (6 to 12 inches) between each plant is recommended. This spacing allows the plants to have enough room to grow and ensures proper airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• For larger plantings or rows, leave about 30 to 45 centimeters (12 to 18 inches) between rows to provide space for harvesting and maintenance.

2. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile):

• Roman Chamomile is a perennial plant that has a lower, creeping growth habit. It usually reaches a height of about 10 to 30 centimeters (4 to 12 inches) and can spread up to 30 to 45 centimeters (12 to 18 inches).
• Due to its lower growth habit, Roman Chamomile can be planted closer together compared to German Chamomile. A spacing of about 15 centimeters (6 inches) between individual plants is often suitable for creating a dense, ground-covering mat.

Important Considerations:

• Chamomile plants are known to self-seed, meaning they can produce new plants from dropped seeds. If you want to encourage self-seeding for future generations of chamomile, you may want to allow some space between plants for the natural spread of seeds.
• Keep in mind that chamomile plants can vary in size depending on the specific growing conditions, so it’s essential to monitor their growth and adjust the spacing if needed.

As with any gardening, the spacing of chamomile plants should be adaptable to the available space and your specific gardening goals. Proper spacing ensures that the plants have enough access to sunlight, nutrients, and water, leading to healthier and more productive chamomile plants.

Temperature:

Chamomile (both German Chamomile – Matricaria chamomilla, and Roman Chamomile – Chamaemelum nobile) is generally a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures. However, there are certain temperature preferences that can optimize its growth and health. Here are the ideal temperature ranges for growing chamomile:

1. Germination Temperature: For chamomile seeds to germinate successfully, the soil temperature should be around 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F). Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days under these conditions.

2. Growing Temperature: Once the chamomile plants have germinated and started growing, they prefer moderate temperatures. The optimal daytime temperature range for chamomile growth is around 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F). During the night, the temperature can drop slightly, but it’s best to keep it above 10°C (50°F).

3. Flowering Temperature: Chamomile plants produce the familiar daisy-like flowers during their flowering stage. For the best flower development, chamomile prefers temperatures between 15 to 21°C (59 to 70°F) during the day. Consistent temperatures within this range can encourage abundant and healthy flowering.

4. Temperature Considerations:

• Chamomile can tolerate colder temperatures, especially Roman Chamomile, which is more cold-hardy than German Chamomile. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) might slow down growth or even damage the plant.
• High temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can cause stress to chamomile plants, potentially leading to reduced flowering and overall health. If you are growing chamomile in hot climates, provide some shade or choose a location with partial sun to protect the plants from extreme heat.

Soil and Sunlight Considerations: Apart from temperature, chamomile also thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility. It prefers full sun to partial shade, depending on the climate. In cooler regions, full sun exposure is generally beneficial, while in hotter areas, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from excessive heat stress.

To sum up, chamomile prefers moderate temperatures for germination, growth, and flowering. The optimal temperature ranges for chamomile cultivation are approximately 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F) during the day and above 10°C (50°F) at night. Maintaining these temperature ranges, along with suitable soil and sunlight conditions, can ensure healthy and vigorous chamomile plants with abundant blooms.

Sun/Light:

Chamomile plants generally prefer full sun to light shade, depending on the climate and local conditions. The amount of light required for chamomile can vary based on factors such as the specific type of chamomile (German Chamomile or Roman Chamomile) and the prevailing climate in the growing region.

1. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

• German Chamomile typically prefers full sun, meaning it requires around 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. With sufficient sunlight, German Chamomile plants tend to produce more flowers and thrive better.

2. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile):

• Roman Chamomile can tolerate some shade and prefers cooler temperatures. It can grow well in areas with partial sun, receiving around 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade might be beneficial to protect the plant from excessive heat stress.

Light Considerations:

• In regions with mild or cool climates, providing full sun exposure to both German and Roman Chamomile can lead to healthy growth and robust flowering.
• In hotter regions, especially during the peak of summer, providing some afternoon shade for German Chamomile or partial sun for Roman Chamomile can help prevent the plants from wilting or experiencing heat stress.
• Indoor cultivation of chamomile can also be successful with the use of grow lights that mimic natural sunlight. When growing chamomile indoors, provide the plants with 12 to 16 hours of artificial light per day.

In summary, German Chamomile generally prefers full sun and needs around 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Roman Chamomile, on the other hand, can tolerate some shade and requires around 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Proper light exposure, along with suitable soil conditions and appropriate temperatures, can contribute to healthy and thriving chamomile plants.

Flowering Time:

The time it takes for a Chamomile plant to produce flowers after germination can vary based on several factors, including the specific type of Chamomile (German Chamomile or Roman Chamomile), growing conditions, and climate. Generally, Chamomile plants start flowering within a specific time frame:

1. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

• German Chamomile is known to be a fast-growing annual plant. It usually takes around 6 to 8 weeks after germination for German Chamomile to produce flowers under optimal growing conditions.

2. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile):

• Roman Chamomile is also relatively quick to flower. Like German Chamomile, it typically starts flowering within 6 to 8 weeks after germination, given suitable growing conditions.

Factors Affecting Flowering Time: Several factors can influence the flowering time of Chamomile plants:

1. Growing Conditions: Chamomile thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility and prefers full sun to partial shade. Providing the right conditions can encourage the plant to flower more quickly.
2. Temperature: Temperature plays a crucial role in the growth and development of Chamomile. Moderate temperatures within the plant’s preferred range can expedite flowering.
3. Watering: Proper watering practices are essential for healthy growth. Overwatering or underwatering can affect flowering time and overall plant health.
4. Plant Health: Healthy plants are more likely to produce flowers in a timely manner. Proper nutrition and pest control can contribute to vigorous growth and flowering.

Harvesting Flowers: Once Chamomile plants start producing flowers, they can continue to do so throughout the growing season. To harvest Chamomile flowers, wait until they are fully open, typically early in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. Harvesting the flowers regularly can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms.

In conclusion, both German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile plants typically start producing flowers within 6 to 8 weeks after germination, provided they have the right growing conditions and care. Properly tending to the plants and encouraging healthy growth can lead to a bountiful harvest of Chamomile flowers for various purposes, including making herbal teas and other natural remedies.

Flowers Production:

Chamomile plants can continue to grow and produce more vegetation after flowering. Both German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) are known to be relatively long-flowering plants, meaning they can continue to produce flowers over an extended period during the growing season. As they continue to flower, they can also put energy into growing more foliage and stems.

1. Continuous Flowering: Chamomile plants are capable of continuous flowering, especially when regularly harvested. As you remove the mature flowers (deadheading) or harvest them for various uses, the plant often responds by producing more flower buds. This behavior can lead to a prolonged flowering period, providing a steady supply of chamomile flowers for harvesting.

2. Vegetative Growth: Alongside continuous flowering, chamomile plants also continue to grow vegetative parts, such as leaves and stems. As long as the plant receives adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, it will continue to produce new foliage.

3. Perennial Growth (Roman Chamomile): Roman Chamomile is a perennial plant, which means it can regrow year after year. After the initial flowering season, the plant may become dormant during colder months or adverse conditions. However, as spring approaches and temperatures rise, Roman Chamomile can resume its growth, producing fresh foliage and flowers from its established root system or newly germinated seeds.

Important Note: To ensure the plant remains healthy and continues to produce flowers and foliage, it’s essential to provide proper care and maintain suitable growing conditions. Regular watering, fertilization, and protection from extreme temperatures or pests can contribute to the plant’s overall vitality and continued growth.

In conclusion, Chamomile plants have the ability to grow more vegetation after flowering. By continuously flowering and producing new foliage, Chamomile plants can provide a steady supply of flowers throughout the growing season, making them valuable for various uses such as making herbal teas and other natural remedies. Additionally, Roman Chamomile can regrow year after year, maintaining its growth and flowering as a perennial plant.

Flowering:

Chamomile plants, like many other flowering plants, are influenced by photoperiod (the duration of light and dark periods in a day) when it comes to their flowering process. However, the specific response to photoperiod can vary between different plant species and cultivars. Let’s explore how chamomile plants respond to light periods and whether you can trigger or delay flowering:

1. Photoperiod and Flowering: Chamomile plants, particularly German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), are typically considered short-day plants. It means they tend to initiate flowering when the days become shorter (day length decreases) and nights become longer (night length increases).

2. Triggering Flowering: For chamomile plants to flower, they require exposure to short-day conditions. When the plant is grown under natural conditions, it usually flowers in response to the shortening daylight hours that occur in late summer and fall. However, if you want to control the flowering time, you can manipulate the light exposure artificially.

3. Artificial Light Control: By using artificial lighting, you can control the photoperiod to trigger or delay flowering in chamomile plants. To promote earlier flowering, you can expose the chamomile plants to long nights (14-16 hours of uninterrupted darkness) while providing short days (8-10 hours of light). Conversely, to delay flowering, you can use short nights (10-12 hours of darkness) and long days (14-16 hours of light).

4. Use of Blackout Curtains: For outdoor-grown chamomile plants, you can use blackout curtains or coverings to control their exposure to natural light. By covering the plants during certain periods, you can simulate shorter days and longer nights, encouraging earlier flowering.

5. Practical Considerations: While controlling the photoperiod can be useful for research purposes or specific agricultural practices, for most home gardeners, it’s often unnecessary to manipulate the flowering time of chamomile plants. These plants are usually well-adapted to flower at the appropriate time in response to natural changes in day length.

In conclusion, chamomile plants, particularly German Chamomile, respond to photoperiod, and their flowering is influenced by the length of daylight and darkness. While you can control the flowering time using artificial lighting or blackout curtains, it’s often unnecessary for regular gardeners as chamomile plants tend to flower naturally when the days become shorter.

In Hydroponic:

Chamomile can be suitable for hydroponic cultivation. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, where the plant roots are directly exposed to a nutrient-rich water solution. Since hydroponic systems provide the necessary nutrients directly to the plants’ roots, it can be an efficient way to grow chamomile and other herbs.

Here are some considerations for growing chamomile in a hydroponic system:

1. Hydroponic System Type: There are various types of hydroponic systems available, including deep water culture, nutrient film technique, ebb and flow, and others. Chamomile can adapt well to most hydroponic systems, but some systems, such as nutrient film technique (NFT), can be particularly well-suited for growing smaller herbs like chamomile.

2. Light Requirements: Chamomile plants typically prefer full sun, so providing adequate light is crucial in a hydroponic setup. Using full-spectrum grow lights, such as LED or fluorescent lights, can help mimic natural sunlight and promote healthy growth and flowering.

3. Nutrient Solution: In a hydroponic system, you’ll need to provide the right balance of nutrients for the chamomile plants to thrive. A complete hydroponic nutrient solution with the appropriate N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) ratios, as well as essential micronutrients, will support optimal growth and flower production.

4. pH and EC Levels: Monitoring and maintaining the pH level and electrical conductivity (EC) of the nutrient solution is essential. Chamomile prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of around 6.0 to 7.0. The EC level should be adjusted to suit the plant’s growth stage and environmental conditions.

5. Temperature and Humidity: Chamomile prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. Keeping the growing environment within the appropriate temperature range and providing adequate ventilation will help ensure healthy plant growth.

6. Plant Spacing: Chamomile plants can spread out, so providing enough space between plants in the hydroponic system will allow them to grow and flourish without crowding each other.

7. Harvesting and Pruning: Harvesting chamomile flowers in a hydroponic setup is similar to traditional cultivation. Regularly pruning the flowers can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms.

Chamomile can indeed be grown in a hydroponic system, providing a controlled and efficient environment for its growth. With proper attention to light, nutrients, pH, and other environmental factors, you can successfully cultivate chamomile hydroponically and enjoy a continuous supply of fresh chamomile flowers for various uses.

For growing chamomile in a hydroponic setup, it’s important to maintain suitable temperature and humidity levels to promote healthy growth and flowering. Chamomile, both German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), thrives in moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. Here are the recommended temperature and humidity ranges for growing chamomile hydroponically:

Temperature Range:

• Daytime Temperature: Chamomile plants generally prefer daytime temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F).
• Nighttime Temperature: During the night, chamomile plants can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).

Humidity Range:

• Relative Humidity (RH): Chamomile plants can tolerate a range of humidity levels, but they typically prefer moderate humidity. Aim for a relative humidity range of 40% to 60% for optimal growth.
• Adequate Ventilation: Providing proper ventilation in the hydroponic setup can help prevent excessive humidity buildup and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Considerations:

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Chamomile plants may experience stress and reduced growth if exposed to extreme temperatures (below 5°C/41°F or above 30°C/86°F). Protect the plants from such extreme conditions to ensure their well-being.
• Humidity and Watering: Be mindful of maintaining proper humidity levels, especially during the flowering stage, as high humidity can lead to waterlogged conditions. Proper watering practices in the hydroponic system are essential to prevent water-related issues.

Light Consideration: In addition to temperature and humidity, ensure that the chamomile plants receive sufficient light. Chamomile prefers full sun to partial shade, so provide adequate lighting with full-spectrum grow lights if natural sunlight is limited.

Observation and Adjustment: Keep a close eye on the hydroponic environment and regularly monitor temperature and humidity levels. Adjust environmental factors as needed to provide the best conditions for chamomile growth.

In summary, chamomile can be successfully grown in a hydroponic setup by maintaining daytime temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), nighttime temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), and relative humidity ranging from 40% to 60%. Proper attention to environmental conditions, lighting, and watering will help ensure healthy and thriving chamomile plants in a hydroponic setting.

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT):

The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a popular hydroponic system used to grow plants without soil. It is an efficient and water-saving method that allows plant roots to be continuously exposed to a thin film of nutrient-rich water. The NFT system is especially well-suited for growing smaller herbs, lettuce, and other leafy greens, making it a potential option for growing plants like chamomile.

How the Nutrient Film Technique Works: In an NFT system, plants are grown in channels or gutters that are slightly tilted to allow a thin film of nutrient solution to flow continuously over the bottom surface. The plant roots grow within this film of nutrient solution while being exposed to air above.

The key components of an NFT system include:

1. Growth Channels: These are typically narrow, sloped channels or gutters where the plants are placed, allowing the nutrient solution to flow over the roots.
2. Pump and Reservoir: A pump is used to recirculate the nutrient solution from a reservoir to the top of the channels, where it flows down through the system.
3. Return Pipe: The nutrient solution not absorbed by the plants flows back to the reservoir through a return pipe, where it is re-oxygenated before recirculation.

Advantages of the Nutrient Film Technique:

1. Water Efficiency: NFT is a water-efficient method of hydroponic cultivation since it recirculates the nutrient solution, minimizing water waste compared to traditional soil-based growing methods.
2. Nutrient Control: The system provides precise control over the nutrient solution, ensuring that plants receive the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth.
3. Oxygenation: The continuous flow of nutrient solution and the exposed roots help maintain a well-oxygenated environment for the plants.
4. Ease of Harvesting: NFT systems can be designed to allow easy access to plants, making harvesting straightforward.

Considerations for Growing Chamomile in NFT: While the Nutrient Film Technique is a viable option for hydroponic cultivation, there are specific considerations for growing chamomile using this method:

• Chamomile plants can spread out, so providing enough space between plants in the NFT channels will allow them to grow and flourish without crowding each other.
• Chamomile prefers full sun to partial shade, so ensure that the NFT system is placed in a location that receives sufficient light or use appropriate artificial lighting.

The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a hydroponic system that efficiently supplies plants with nutrient-rich water through a thin film flowing over the roots. While NFT is commonly used for leafy greens and herbs, with proper design and care, it can also be a suitable method for growing chamomile and other plants that prefer well-oxygenated root environments.

PPM:

The optimal ppm (parts per million) of nutrients for growing chamomile in a hydroponic system can vary depending on the specific growth stage of the plant and the system used. The ppm measurement indicates the concentration of dissolved nutrients in the nutrient solution, which is crucial for providing the right balance of essential elements to support healthy chamomile growth.

1. Seedlings and Young Plants: When chamomile plants are in their early stages, such as seedlings or young transplants, it’s essential to start with a mild nutrient solution to avoid overwhelming the delicate roots. A suitable starting ppm range for seedlings and young chamomile plants can be around 200 to 400 ppm.

2. Vegetative Growth: During the vegetative growth phase, as the chamomile plants establish their root systems and foliage, they will require a slightly higher concentration of nutrients. Aim for a ppm range of approximately 400 to 800 ppm during this stage.

3. Flowering Stage: When chamomile plants enter the flowering stage, they will have higher nutrient demands to support the development of flowers. Increasing the ppm level is recommended at this point. A ppm range of 800 to 1200 ppm can be suitable for chamomile during flowering.

4. Adjusting PPM: It’s essential to monitor the health and growth of the chamomile plants regularly and adjust the ppm levels accordingly. If you notice signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, you may need to make adjustments to the nutrient solution.

5. EC Conversion: In some cases, hydroponic systems use Electrical Conductivity (EC) measurements instead of ppm to determine nutrient levels. The EC value represents the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution, which is related to its nutrient concentration. The conversion between ppm and EC can vary depending on the nutrient composition of the solution and the measuring equipment being used.

Final Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for nutrient solutions or consult with a hydroponics expert for specific ppm guidelines tailored to your hydroponic system and the type of nutrient mix you are using. Additionally, chamomile can tolerate a range of nutrient levels, so slight variations in ppm may not significantly affect its growth, as long as the basic nutrient requirements are met and the overall growing conditions are suitable.

Outdoor:

In Melbourne, the best time to grow chamomile is during the cooler months, specifically in the autumn and winter seasons. Chamomile is a cool-season herb and thrives in mild temperatures. Here are some guidelines for growing chamomile in Melbourne:

1. Planting Time: Chamomile can be planted from late autumn to early winter, typically from April to June. This allows the plant to establish its root system and foliage during the cooler months before the warmer weather arrives.

2. Growing Conditions: Chamomile prefers full sun to partial shade, so choose a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the soil is well-draining and moderately fertile.

3. Temperature: Chamomile grows best in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) during the day and around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night. The cooler temperatures of autumn and winter in Melbourne are ideal for chamomile cultivation.

4. Frost Protection: While chamomile can tolerate cool temperatures, it is susceptible to frost. If frost is common in your area, consider protecting the plants during particularly cold nights with covers or cloths.

5. Watering: Chamomile prefers regular, moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to waterlogged soil, which is detrimental to the plant’s health.

6. Harvesting: Chamomile flowers can be harvested once they are fully open, typically in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. Harvesting can usually begin around 6 to 8 weeks after planting.

7. Perennial Variety: Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a perennial variety, which means it can continue to grow and come back year after year. If you choose Roman Chamomile, it can persist and grow through multiple seasons with proper care.

Note: Keep in mind that specific planting times and conditions may vary slightly depending on microclimates within the Melbourne area. It’s always best to observe local weather patterns and adjust your planting and care schedule accordingly.

Overall, autumn and winter in Melbourne provide suitable conditions for growing chamomile, allowing the plant to thrive in the cooler weather and produce abundant flowers for various uses, including herbal teas and other natural remedies.

Thanks for reading and Keep growing ☮️