How to Grow German Chamomile

Clear a site that has full sun and well-drained soil using a garden rake and shovel. German chamomile is not picky about pH level, thriving in moderately acidic to alkaline soil, or soil quality, often thriving in poor, clay soil, according to Purdue University's Center for New Crops and Plant Products. Make sure you wait until the soil temperature is warm. Planting in August or early fall while the weather is still warm and before the first frost is ideal.

Sprinkle these seeds directly onto the surface of the soil. Do not bury the seeds. They need light to germinate.

Water the seeds immediately with a water wand that produces a very light shower. You want to hold the seeds onto the soil, not wash them away.

Thin newly sprouted seedlings to 2 inches apart. Germination occurs in seven to 14 days. Continue to water with the wand frequently. Make sure the soil is draining well.

Harvest German chamomile by snipping off the fully open flower heads with scissors. They can be used fresh or dry. If you do not plan to harvest the flowers, be aware that chamomile can reseed aggressively. The wind can spread the seed from the flowers. It can pop up in unexpected places. In that case, simply pull up the extra plants and either find another location for it or pot it and give it to a friend.