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 mainly for dried flower heads for tea. Hold EC around 0.8-1.4 mS/cm and pH 5.5-7.5; chamomile is adaptable. Grow at 15–25°C; it flowers best in cool weather. Give moderate light, 15-25 mol/m2/day. German chamomile, the annual, is the better hydroponic choice. First flowers come six to eight weeks from seed, and the plant blooms for four to six weeks; pick individual heads when the white petals are fully open and starting to bend backward. Dry the heads in a single layer at 35–40°C to keep the volatile oils, or on screens in a warm, airy room, then store sealed away from light. Each plant gives dozens of flowers, and ten to fifteen plants supply a household's tea. Essential-oil extraction by steam distillation needs large quantities of flowers, so for home growers the dried-flower tea is the practical product.