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How Much Space to Leave Between Each Chamomile Plant

Updated: February 15, 2023

Chamomile is a herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. It is commonly used to treat various ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues. Chamomile is also used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

If you’re planning to grow chamomile, one of the most important things to consider is the spacing between each plant. Proper spacing ensures that each plant has enough space to grow and develop properly.

In this article, we’ll discuss how much space you should leave between each chamomile plant.

Factors to Consider

Before we dive into the recommended spacing between chamomile plants, it’s essential to consider some factors that can affect how much space your plants need. These factors include:

Type of Chamomile

There are two main types of chamomile – German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). German chamomile grows taller than Roman chamomile, which means it needs more space between each plant.

Soil Quality

The quality of your soil can impact how much space your chamomile plants need. If your soil is rich in nutrients and well-draining, your chamomile plants can grow bigger and may need more space.

Climate

Chamomile grows best in cool weather conditions. If you live in a warm climate, your chamomile plants may grow faster and bigger than those grown in cooler climates.

Purpose of Growing Chamomile

The purpose of growing chamomile can also impact how much space your plants need. If you’re growing chamomile for commercial purposes, you may want to leave more space between each plant to allow for easy harvesting.

Recommended Spacing

The recommended spacing between each chamomile plant depends on the type of chamomile you’re growing.

German Chamomile

If you’re growing German chamomile, it’s recommended to leave at least 6 inches (15 cm) between each plant. German chamomile can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and needs enough space to develop fully.

Roman Chamomile

For Roman chamomile, you can leave a smaller gap between each plant. It’s recommended to leave at least 4 inches (10 cm) between each plant. Roman chamomile grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall, and the smaller spacing allows for a denser growth pattern.

Tips for Planting Chamomile

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planting chamomile:

  • Plant your chamomile in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.
  • Chamomile needs full sun exposure to grow properly, so choose a location with plenty of sunlight.
  • Water your chamomile regularly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
  • Harvest your chamomile flowers as soon as they bloom to ensure the best flavor and medicinal properties.

FAQ

Can I grow chamomile indoors?

Yes, you can grow chamomile indoors as long as it gets enough sunlight and you provide proper drainage.

How many chamomile plants do I need for a tea garden?

It depends on how much tea you want to make. Generally, 5-10 chamomile plants are enough for a small tea garden.

How often should I fertilize my chamomile plants?

Chamomile doesn’t require much fertilizer. You can fertilize once every two weeks using a diluted fish emulsion solution.

Can I plant other herbs with my chamomile?

Yes, chamomile grows well with other herbs like lavender, mint, and lemon balm.

Conclusion

Proper spacing between chamomile plants is crucial for their growth and development. The recommended spacing depends on the type of chamomile you’re growing, soil quality, climate, and the purpose of growing chamomile. By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can plant and grow chamomile successfully.