The aromatic herb chamomile, which includes species like German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), is widely recognized for its calming properties and use in teas. This popular plant holds a complex relationship with the insect world in a garden setting. Chamomile functions as a dual-action plant, selectively attracting beneficial insects while actively deterring several harmful ones. Understanding these distinct interactions is key to harnessing its full potential for a balanced and healthy garden ecosystem.
Chamomile as a Pollinator and Beneficial Insect Magnet
Chamomile is an exceptional resource for attracting many beneficial insects. German chamomile, in particular, features small, open, daisy-like flowers known as composite flowers. This structure makes its pollen and nectar highly accessible to insects of varying sizes. The blooms offer a steady supply of both nectar (a sugar-rich energy source) and pollen (which provides protein), acting as a powerful lure for native bees, honeybees, and butterflies, supporting essential pollination services.
Beyond pollinators, chamomile is a magnet for predatory and parasitic insects that naturally control pest populations. These beneficial predators include hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings, which feed on common garden pests like aphids and mites. Tiny parasitic wasps, which lay their eggs inside pest insects, are also drawn to the small, easily reachable floral parts of chamomile.
Chamomile’s Role in Pest Deterrence
While chamomile’s flowers draw in helpful insects, the plant’s essential oils simultaneously work to repel certain unwanted pests. This deterrent effect is due to the volatile organic compounds concentrated in the plant’s tissues, which are released into the air and soil. The most significant of these compounds is alpha-bisabolol, which is abundant in German chamomile essential oil.
This compound, along with others like spiroethers, has been scientifically shown to exhibit a strong insect-repellent quality. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that chamomile essential oils can provide biting deterrence against insects such as the Aedes aegypti mosquito, with efficacy comparable to synthetic repellents like DEET. This suggests chamomile can disrupt the host-seeking behavior of various biting pests.
The repellent action extends to other harmful garden inhabitants. German chamomile oil has been found to be an effective repellent against imported fire ants. This chemical defense mechanism helps protect the chamomile plant itself and, by extension, neighboring plants from being severely damaged.
Practical Applications for Garden Health
The dual nature of chamomile makes it an invaluable tool for maintaining garden health through strategic placement and application. Companion planting is a simple and effective method, where chamomile is placed next to vulnerable plants that benefit from its protective aura. The herb’s presence can improve the overall vigor of its neighbors while drawing in the beneficial insects needed for pest control.
Another method involves utilizing the plant’s compounds in a liquid form to treat or protect plants directly. A strong infusion, often called chamomile tea, can be prepared by steeping the dried flowers in hot water. Once cooled, this liquid can be used as a spray directly on plant foliage to deter soft-bodied pests and fungal issues.
This chamomile infusion also functions as a gentle soil drench, which can help prevent damping-off disease in seedlings, a common fungal issue. By applying the tea directly to the soil, you utilize chamomile’s antifungal properties to maintain a healthier root environment.