Chamomile in the North: How to Grow and Use This Calming Herb in Minnesota
There’s something magical about stepping outside in the summer and brushing your hand against a plant that smells sweet, warm, and a little like apple pie. That plant? Chamomile—a favorite in gardens across Minnesota, and for good reason. It's easy to grow, beautiful to look at, and packed with gentle healing properties that have stood the test of time.
🌱 How to Grow Chamomile in Minnesota
Minnesota’s growing season is short, but chamomile thrives in our climate when timed right.
When to Plant:
Start chamomile indoors around mid-April, about 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors once the soil warms and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F—typically late May or early June. You can also direct-sow seeds in your garden once the danger of frost has passed.
Where and How:
Chamomile loves full sun and well-drained soil. It’s a great choice for pollinator gardens, herb patches, or tucked between vegetables. Sow seeds thinly, cover lightly with soil, and keep moist until germination (which usually takes 7–14 days). Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and relatively low maintenance.
Tip: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is the most common variety for tea, while Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a hardy ground cover that’s perennial in warmer zones—but often grown as an annual in Minnesota.
🌼 The Benefits of Chamomile: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Chamomile isn’t just a charming garden addition—it’s been used for centuries as a natural remedy for mind and body. Here’s what makes it special:
1. Calming and Sleep-Supportive
Chamomile tea is a bedtime favorite for a reason. Its natural compounds, like apigenin, help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. A warm cup before bed can help ease you into restful sleep without any grogginess.
2. Soothing for the Stomach
It’s long been used to calm digestive issues—think bloating, gas, and mild nausea. A cup after meals can settle your system and reduce discomfort.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin-Healing
Chamomile can be made into soothing salves or used in facial steams. It’s known to reduce inflammation and promote healing for minor cuts, rashes, or sunburns.
4. Gentle Enough for All Ages
Unlike some herbs, chamomile is generally safe for kids and adults alike (though always double-check if pregnant or taking medication). It's often used in calming baby baths or natural teething remedies.
🌿 How to Use It
Tea: Dry the flower heads and steep 1–2 tsp per cup of hot water for 5–10 minutes.
Infused Oil: Soak dried chamomile in a carrier oil (like olive or sweet almond) for several weeks for use in skin balms.
Fresh: Add to bathwater, facial steams, or even salads for a fragrant, soothing touch.
At Northcast MN, we’re all about reconnecting with the plants that thrive in our region—and chamomile is one of those gentle powerhouses that brings both beauty and wellness to your home. Whether you’re sipping it under the stars or harvesting blooms for your kitchen apothecary, this herb is a reminder that nature provides, right here in our northern soil.
Have you grown chamomile in your garden? Share your photos or favorite uses with us on Instagram @NorthcastMN 🌾💛