When to Plant Chamomile
Daisy-like herb used for soothing tea. German chamomile is an annual; Roman chamomile is a perennial groundcover.
The Short Answer
How to Grow Chamomile
German chamomile (annual, tall) and Roman chamomile (perennial, low-growing) are different species used for the same purpose — calming, apple-scented tea made from the daisy-like flowers. German chamomile produces more flowers and is the commercial tea chamomile. Roman chamomile is a fragrant, walkable ground cover that releases apple scent when stepped on. Both self-seed prolifically — plant chamomile once and you'll have it forever. Harvest flowers when petals fold back from the center. Dry in a single layer at room temperature, then store in airtight containers.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Begin chamomile seeds indoors 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures of at least 45°F to germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. Provide 12 hours of light per day using a south-facing window or grow lights.
Transplanting
Move seedlings outside 2 weeks before your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 45°F. Harden off seedlings for 5 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Direct Sowing
Chamomile can be direct sown 2 weeks before your last frost date. , spaced 8" apart.
Growing Tips
Scatter tiny seeds on soil surface — they need light to germinate. German chamomile (annual) grows 2 feet tall with more flowers. Roman (perennial) stays low as a fragrant groundcover. Harvest flowers when petals fold back. Self-seeds prolifically.
Companion Planting
Good companions:
Chamomile Planting Dates by State
Click your state for chamomile planting dates specific to your location:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026