Chamomile, whether the annual German variety (Matricaria recutita) or the perennial Roman type (Chamaemelum nobile), is a highly valued herb, particularly for its fragrant, daisy-like flowers. These blossoms are widely harvested for their calming properties in teas and other preparations. Propagating this beneficial plant requires the successful collection of its small seeds. Understanding the precise timing and following collection and storage steps ensures a viable seed supply for the next planting cycle.
Knowing When the Seeds are Ready
Identifying the correct moment for seed collection ensures the seeds are fully mature and capable of germination. This timing occurs well after the flower’s peak bloom, which is the stage used for harvesting blossoms for tea. The visual cue for seed readiness begins when the white ray petals, which surround the yellow center disc, start to droop, turn brown, or drop off the flower head completely.
The yellow center, known as the receptacle, must become prominent, dry, and firm. In a fully mature state, the receptacle will often turn a light brown or tan color. A simple tactile test confirms ripeness: gently brush the mature flower head, and if the tiny, light-colored seeds are ready, they will easily flake off or drop away from the dried flower structure. If the seed head still feels moist or if the seeds remain firmly attached, the flower head requires more time to fully dry and mature on the plant.
Step-by-Step Seed Collection Techniques
Once the flower heads are confirmed to be dry and dropping seeds easily, the collection process should be approached with care due to the minute size of the seeds. Begin by placing a clean, shallow container, a plate, or a sheet of white paper directly beneath the selected flower heads. This placement is important because the mature seeds are easily dislodged and are challenging to spot on soil or dark surfaces.
Use small, sharp scissors to snip the dried flower heads, leaving only a short bit of stem attached, and drop them directly into the collecting receptacle. Alternatively, for a faster method, you can gently rub or roll the dried flower heads between your fingers directly over the container. This action physically separates the small seeds from the surrounding chaff, which consists of dried petals and other flower remnants. The seeds are exceptionally small, often appearing as fine specks mixed with the debris. The mixture should be carefully transferred to a secure container for the final drying phase.
Proper Drying and Storage Methods
The collected seeds must undergo a final drying process to prevent mold and preserve long-term viability. Residual moisture can lead to fungal growth during storage, rendering the seeds useless for future planting. Spread the seed and chaff mixture out in a single, thin layer on a fine mesh screen, a coffee filter, or a sheet of clean paper.
Place the drying material in a location that is cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated, avoiding direct sunlight or high humidity environments. Allow the seeds to air-dry completely for one to two weeks to minimize moisture content.
Once fully dried, transfer the seeds into an airtight container, such as a small glass jar, or a breathable paper envelope or bag. Label the container clearly with the seed type and the date of harvest. Storing the seeds in a consistently cool, dark, and dry environment, such as a cupboard, helps maintain their germination potential for up to three or four years.