Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Also known asGerman chamomile · Wild chamomile · Scented mayweed · Kamille (German)
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 2–9 (winter low around -46°C)
- Frost
- frost hardy
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: light.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.6 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A simple hydroponic herb grown primarily for the dried flower heads used in tea. EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 5.5-7.5 (chamomile is adaptable). Temperature: 15–25°C (cool to moderate; flowers best in cool weather). Moderate light (DLI 14-20 mol/m2/day). German chamomile (the annual type) is the better choice for hydroponic production. From seed to first flowers: 6-8 weeks. The plant blooms for 4-6 weeks; harvest individual flower heads when the white petals are fully open and beginning to reflex backward (bend downward from the center). Dry flower heads in a single layer in a dehydrator at 35–40°C to preserve the volatile oils, or spread on screens in a warm, dry, well-ventilated room. Once dried, store in sealed jars out of direct light. Each plant produces dozens of flowers, and a small group of 10-15 plants provides enough dried chamomile for a household's tea consumption. The essential oil (primarily bisabolol and chamazulene) is extracted by steam distillation for aromatherapy and cosmetic use but requires large quantities of flowers. For home growers, the dried-flower tea is the practical product.