Dyer's Chamomile

Chamomile

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 90d to harvest Upright

Fragrant, apple-sweet chamomile blooms open into daisy-like clusters with a honeyed, golden perfume that fills the garden on warm…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Aug 6th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	65
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Provence Lavender

Hill Hardy Rosemary

Huntington Carpet Rosemary

Salem Rosemary

Phenomenal Lavender

Irene Rosemary

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Anthemis tinctoria (dyer’s chamomile), and what should I do?

A common problem is powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, dusty coating on leaves during warm, humid spells. Improve airflow by spacing plants adequately and watering at the soil line, then remove heavily infected foliage early. If mildew keeps coming back, use a labeled sulfur-based fungicide and reapply according to the label at the first signs on new growth.

How often should I water Anthemis tinctoria during its main growing phase?

During active growth (from establishment through early flowering), keep the top 1–2 inches of soil lightly moist but never soggy—typically watering about 1 inch per week total, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings, since Anthemis tinctoria performs best in moderately dry conditions rather than consistently wet soil. Once plants are established, reduce watering because overly wet soil increases disease risk.

How can I tell when Anthemis tinctoria is ready to harvest?

Harvest when most flower heads are fully open and a high proportion of the ray florets are spread (usually around 90 days from sowing, depending on conditions). Pick on dry mornings after dew has evaporated to help the flowers dry evenly and reduce spoilage. Continue harvesting repeatedly as new heads open, but avoid harvesting when heads start turning brown and seed heads begin forming.

Fragrant, apple-sweet chamomile blooms open into daisy-like clusters with a honeyed, golden perfume that fills the garden on warm afternoons. Dyer's Chamomile forms sturdy, feathery foliage and produces abundant heads with a crisp, delicate texture—ideal for drying and for infusing the gentle, floral character that makes this herb a favorite. Grow it for its aromatic presence and its steady harvest of charming blossoms over a long, satisfying season.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For chamomile-type herbs, sow lightly (surface to barely covered), keep evenly moist until established, and avoid over-fertilizing to maintain strong aromatic foliage.