How to grow chamomile in a raised bed

Chamomile gives you a carpet of little daisy flowers for calming teas, and doubles as a cheerful, bee-friendly bloom. It's easy, pretty and undemanding in a sunny raised bed.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Spacing: 20 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 10–12 weeks to flower

When should I plant chamomile?

Sow or plant in spring and autumn. German chamomile is a self-seeding annual; Roman chamomile is a low perennial — both grow easily. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): March to August
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): March to April and September to November
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): October to November
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to June
• Arid inland: April to August

How do I grow chamomile in a raised bed?

Sow into free-draining mix in a sunny spot. German chamomile self-seeds happily, so let a few flowers drop for next year's crop.

How often should I water and feed chamomile?

Water moderately — chamomile tolerates dry spells well once established.

What pests attack chamomile?

Keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with chamomile?

The main one to watch is powdery mildew, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with chamomile?

A classic companion said to boost the health of nearby plants; the flowers feed bees and hoverflies. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest chamomile?

Pick the flowers when fully open, ideally in the morning. Dry them in an airy, shaded spot for tea.

More growing guides: lemon balm, dill and thyme.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: JackyM59, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.