Chamomile - Roman seeds

Chamomile - Roman seeds

Roman lawn chamomile is a charming, low-growing perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to any garden or container. It thrives year-round in most climates, adding lush greenery and delicate flowers. This versatile plant self-seeds, making it ideal for naturalizing spaces, and it can also be used for lawns, ground cover, or container planting. Its flowers are perfect for fresh use or drying, offering both aesthetic and functional value to your garden.

Growing Guide for Roman Lawn Chamomile

When to Sow

Roman lawn chamomile seeds can be sown year-round, avoiding extreme heat or cold. Use a local climate guide to identify the best sowing period for your area.

Preparation

1. Choosing the Right Spot:

   • Select a sunny or partially shaded location with at least 3 hours of sunlight daily.
   • Opt for a permanent position as chamomile plants are perennials that thrive undisturbed.
   • Be mindful of their self-seeding nature; position them where new plants will be welcome, or prevent seeding by deadheading.

2. Soil Requirements:

   • Use well-drained soil enriched with organic matter like aged manure or compost.
   • Weed the area thoroughly and loosen the soil before planting.

3. Container Growing:

   • Choose a container of at least 10 liters with a quality potting mix.
   • Remember that container-grown plants may require extra fertilization during the growing season.

How to Sow Roman Lawn Chamomile Seeds

1. Direct Sowing:

   • Sow seeds 1mm deep and space them 20cm apart.
   • Keep the soil evenly moist, ensuring it doesn’t dry out or become waterlogged.
   • Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days at soil temperatures of 12-25°C.

2. Scatter Method:

   • Roughen the soil surface and evenly scatter seeds.
   • Gently smooth the soil over the seeds, pressing lightly to ensure good contact.

Tips for Success:

• Roman lawn chamomile seeds are small and lightweight. Mix seeds with sand or fine potting mix for easier handling, or use tools like a seed dispenser or tweezers.
• Keep seeds and seedlings consistently moist to avoid drying out.

Caring for Roman Lawn Chamomile

1. Watering:

   • Water deeply when the top 5cm of soil feels dry, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon.
   • Avoid wetting the foliage to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

2. Fertilizing:

   • If the soil is well-prepared, additional fertilizer is generally unnecessary.
   • For a boost, apply a high-potassium or flowering plant fertilizer as needed:
     • Use slow-release fertilizer when seedlings are 5-10cm tall.
     • Apply liquid fertilizer during flowering.

3. Pruning (Optional):

   • After flowering, trim plants back to promote strong new growth and maintain their shape. Cut stems just above a set of lower leaves.

Harvesting Roman Lawn Chamomile Flowers

• Flowers are ready to harvest approximately 230 days after sowing when they are fully open.
• Pinch the stem just below the flower head to harvest without the stem.
• Use fresh flowers immediately or dry them for later use:
  • Spread flowers in a single layer on a wire rack or paper towels in a warm, dry, shaded area.
  • Drying takes 1-2 weeks. Store in a sealed glass jar for up to six months.

Elevate your garden with the enchanting beauty and delightful fragrance of Roman lawn chamomile. Perfect for lawns, borders, or containers, it’s a versatile and rewarding choice for gardeners of all skill levels!