Chamomile is one of nature’s most delightful gifts. With its daisy like flowers and calming fragrance, this flower is as easy plant to grow. We remember always going to the grocery store to buy packaged chamomile tea. Little did we know that it’s quite simple to start growing your own.
We haven’t bought any packaged tea in almost 5 years! (We are big tea drinkers, so this has saved us a lot of money!) Learn how to grow chamomile, its amazing health benefits, and brew yourself a nice cup of tea!
Why grow chamomile?
Growing chamomile is not only satisfying, but it also rewards you with a versatile herb that can be used for teas, skincare, and even baking.
Here are reasons why you should start growing it:
Low maintenance: Chamomile is a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location, but it can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it requires minimal care.
Natural pest deterrent: Chamomile attracts beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs while repelling unwanted pests from your garden, making it an excellent companion plant.
Aesthetic appeal: Its delicate white flowers with sunny yellow middle add charm to any garden, and its soft, apple like fragrance is lovely.
Health benefits of chamomile
Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. Here are the benefits:
Promotes better sleep: Chamomile is famous for its calming properties, making it an ideal natural remedy for insomnia or restlessness.
Eases digestion: Drinking chamomile tea can help relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion. It’s gentle enough for children, too.
Reduces anxiety and stress: The herb has mild sedative effects that can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Soothes skin irritations: Chamomile can be used topically to help with eczema, rashes, or sunburns due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Boosts immunity: Packed with antioxidants, chamomile supports your immune system and helps ward off colds and flu.
How to grow chamomile
Whether you’re planting chamomile in your garden or in containers, here’s a simple guide to get started:
Variety: There are two main types of chamomile:
German chamomile: A tall annual that grows quickly and blooms abundantly.
Roman chamomile: A perennial that grows low to the ground and serves as an excellent ground cover.
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring after the frost has passed. Sprinkle seeds lightly on the soil and press them down gently. Chamomile seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them too deeply.
Watering: Water sparingly. Chamomile prefers slightly dry conditions, so let the soil dry out between waterings.
Harvesting: Harvest the flowers when they are fully open. Use scissors to cut the flower heads and leave the stems intact to encourage new growth.
Drying and Storing: Spread the flowers out in a well-ventilated area to dry. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight container.
Chamomile Tea Cake Recipe
It’s simple and delightful!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon chamomile
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup cane sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix batter: Cream 1/2 cup butter with 1 cup sugar. Add 3 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla. Combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Add chamomile milk (made earlier) to the wet ingredients.
Bake: Pour batter into a greased 9” pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Enjoy!
