German Chamomile
An erect annual (Matricaria recutita), with small, daisylike flowers, is used to make chamomile tea and posessing a number of medicinal qualities.German Chamomile seeds are one of the few seeds that need light to germinate, so starting them by seed is a delicate process. It is best planted outdoors in August by broadcasting the seed and mixing very lightly with the soil. Alternatively, they can be started indoors in propagation flats in March and transplanted outdoors after a hardening off period. In most cases, direct planting in the garden after all chance of frost has passed are successful, as well. Once they are firmly established, German Chamomile is extremely hardy.Chamomile tea can be sprayed on propagation flats to prevent damping off. It is also believed to increase the absorption of calcium when added to a compost pile.
Growing German ChamomileGrowing CulturesOutdoors, containers, landscaping, mass plantings. German chamomile not recommended for containers.Plant HeightChamomile grows to a height of 20 to 30 inches (50 - 70cm).
Plant SpacingChamomile plants should be spaced 6 inches (15 cm) apart.Preferred pH RangeChamomile will grow in a relatively wide pH range between 5.6 (acidic) and 7.5 (neutral).
PropagationFrom seed. Direct sow in spring or fall. Fall sown seeds germinate following spring. Seeds need light to germinate.Seed Germination Period7 to 14 days.Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)10,000 to 18.000.Soil RequirementsWell drained, poor to average soil.
Alternative Growing MediaSoilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco peat, Oasis foam.Time From Seed to Saleable PlantSeeds to finished plugs, 6 weeks; plugs to saleable plants, 6 to 6 weeks.Sun & Lighting RequirementsChamomile grown outdoors prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade.Chives will grow indoors satisfactorily under standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under high output fluorescent , compact fluorescent, or high intensity discharge (metal halide or high pressure sodium) plant growing lights.
Keep standard fluorescent lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants, high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.USDA HardinessAnnual.
Water RequirementsWater on a regular schedule, taking care to not overwater.Potential Pests & DiseasesAphids, mealybug. Minimal disease issues.Special NotesChamomile may be considered a noxious weed or invasive plant in some areas. Chamomile is known to attract bees, butterflies or birds and has fragrant blossoms. Chamomile self-sows freely; remove flowers (deadhead) if you do not want volunteer seedlings the following season.
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