(Matricaria recutita)
Our improved chamomile variety is imported from Germany where herbal teas and remedies have been used for centuries. Bodegold begins blooming several weeks earlier than other strains and produces abundant flowers. Pick the little blossoms with their dainty white petals and gold centers and simply air dry for making fragrant pineapple-scented tea. Serve with a little honey to settle the stomach and soothe the nervous system before retiring.

 

ANNUAL

Spring/summer/fall harvest

Frost hardy

TO START INDOORS

Sow seeds in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Cover seeds very lightly and keep evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Provide a good light source until seedlings are about 2 inches tall. Transplant 4 inches apart after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions. Don’t let seedlings get too big or crowded before planting out.

GROWING NOTES

Start chamomile in early spring for sturdy growth before warm weather initiates flowering. Harvest every few days just as the petite daisylike flowers are fully open, but before the petals dry up. Air dry blossoms indoors in a single layer for several days, then store in a sealed container. Steep in boiling water for a lovely scented tea. Leave a few flowers in the garden to set seed, then shake spent plants and they will often self-sow to bloom next season. blossoms with their dainty white petals and gold centers and simply air dry for making fragrant pineapple-scented tea. Serve with a little honey to settle the stomach and soothe the nervous system before retiring.