How to grow Chamomile in Australia
Sow chamomile in full sun in light, free-draining soil, scattering the fine seed on the surface as it needs light to sprout. Water while young, then it copes with dry conditions.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 4 days
- Spacing: 20 cm
- Time to harvest: 60 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 5.5 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to September | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to September | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to September | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to September | Frost-tolerant; Melbourne cool season suits. Extend window Mar to Sep. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to September | |
| Perth & WA | March to September | |
| Tasmania | September to November | Sow Sep to Nov. Thrives in cool summers and self-seeds. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to September | Chamomile sow spring-autumn; cold-hardy annual; self-seeds readily; use for herbal tea; blooms profusely in cool season. |
| North Queensland | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Chamomile prefers cooler months. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Chamomile prefers cooler months. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Pick the flower heads when the white petals are flat or just starting to curl back and the centres are domed and bright yellow. Frequent picking brings more flowers.
Storage
Dry flowers thoroughly and store in a sealed jar, up to 6 months.