Hudson Valley Seed Co. German Chamomile

German Chamomile grows well in containers, provided the pot is at least 8-10 inches deep to accommodate its roots. Ensure the container has good drainage, as these plants prefer consistent moisture but dislike sitting in waterlogged soil.

Harvest the blossoms when the petals are fully open and have begun to flatten out or curve slightly backward. For the best flavor and potency, pick them in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun is at its peak.

While they do drop seeds easily, German Chamomile is not considered invasive. You can easily manage their spread by deadheading the flowers before they go to seed if you want to contain them to a specific area.

Spread the harvested flower heads in a single layer on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated spot out of direct sunlight. They are fully dry when the petals feel brittle and the centers crumble easily between your fingers.

Chamomile seeds need light to germinate, so be careful not to bury them too deeply. Simply press them into the surface of the soil or cover them with a very light dusting of soil—no more than 1/4 inch deep.