How to Grow Roman Chamomile Plant Outdoors

Roman chamomile, scientifically known as Chamaemelum nobile, is a popular herb with a variety of uses. It is well-known for its calming properties and is commonly used in teas, tinctures, and essential oils. Growing Roman chamomile outdoors not only allows you to enjoy its beautiful flowers and fragrance but also provides you with a fresh supply of this versatile herb. In this article, we will guide you on how to successfully grow Roman chamomile plant outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing Roman chamomile outdoors is selecting the right location for your plants. Roman chamomile prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to choose an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, the soil should be well-draining as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting Roman chamomile, it is crucial to prepare the soil properly. The herb prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.6 and 7.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add some organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to lower the pH level.

It is also recommended to loosen the soil by tilling or digging it up to a depth of 6-8 inches. This will help improve drainage and allow the roots to penetrate easily.

Planting Roman Chamomile

Once the soil is prepared, it’s time to plant your Roman chamomile. You can start by either sowing seeds directly into the ground or transplanting seedlings.

Sowing Seeds

If you choose to sow seeds directly into the ground, make sure the soil temperature has reached around 60°F (15°C) for successful germination. Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared soil and lightly press them into the ground. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 7-14 days.

Transplanting Seedlings

If you prefer to start with seedlings, you can purchase them from a local nursery or start your own indoors. Begin by filling small containers with potting mix and lightly moistening it. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of additional potting mix. Place the containers in a warm location with indirect sunlight and keep the soil consistently moist.

Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 2-3 inches, they are ready for transplanting outdoors. Choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize stress on the plants. Dig holes in the prepared soil, ensuring they are spaced about 6-12 inches apart. Gently remove the seedlings from their containers, taking care not to damage the roots, and place them in the holes. Firmly press the soil around the base of each plant to secure it.

Watering and Mulching

Proper watering is essential for healthy growth and development of Roman chamomile plants. Water your chamomile regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist but not saturated. Avoid overhead watering as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Mulching around your chamomile plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic mulch such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves and spread it around the base of the plants, leaving a gap around the stem to prevent rot.

Care and Maintenance

Roman chamomile is relatively low-maintenance once established but still requires some care to ensure optimal growth.

Fertilizing

Chamomile plants do not require excessive fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning

Regular pruning helps keep Roman chamomile plants compact and encourages more prolific flowering. After the first flush of flowers has faded, trim back the plants by cutting off about one-third of the foliage. This will stimulate new growth and prolong the blooming period.

Pest and Disease Control

Roman chamomile is relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate measures, such as spraying with a gentle insecticidal soap or removing infected leaves.

Harvesting Roman Chamomile

The best time to harvest Roman chamomile is in the morning when the flowers are fully open. Gently pluck the flower heads from the plants and lay them out to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight container away from heat and moisture.

Conclusion

Growing Roman chamomile outdoors can be a rewarding experience, providing you with a fresh supply of this versatile herb. By choosing the right location, preparing the soil, and following proper care and maintenance practices, you can enjoy beautiful chamomile plants and harvest their fragrant flowers for various uses. So why not give it a try and bring the calming properties of Roman chamomile into your garden?