Chamomile is an aromatic herb widely appreciated for its daisy-like flowers, which are commonly dried and brewed into a soothing tea. The two main types are German chamomile (an annual that readily self-seeds) and Roman chamomile (a low-growing perennial). Successfully saving seeds from the German variety ensures a continuous supply of this beneficial herb. This process requires attention to the plant’s life cycle to capture the tiny seeds at maturity.
Recognizing When Chamomile Seeds Are Ready
Successful seed saving requires allowing the flowers to progress far beyond the point of being suitable for tea, remaining on the plant until they are completely spent. A primary indication of readiness is the disappearance of the white ray petals, which will have already faded, curled backward, and dropped away.
The central yellow cone, containing the developing seeds, will begin to change color, turning a dry, pale brown or yellow. This spent flower head will feel brittle and dry to the touch. The seeds are ready for collection when the flower head easily releases them upon being gently brushed. If the seeds remain firmly attached, the flower head needs a few more days of drying on the stem.
Collecting the Ripe Flower Heads
Collect the spent flower heads once they display the proper signs of dryness. It is best to perform this task on a warm, dry, and sunny day, ideally after the morning dew has fully evaporated. Harvesting on a dry day minimizes moisture content, which reduces the risk of mold developing during subsequent drying stages.
To remove the seed heads, use small scissors or simply pinch the head off, cutting just below the base of the cone. The goal is to gather the dried flower heads with minimal stem material attached. Collect the harvested heads in a shallow basket or a loosely held paper bag to allow for air circulation and prevent crushing.
Preparing and Storing Seeds for Next Season
After collection, the flower heads require a period of thorough drying before the seeds can be safely stored. Spread the collected material in a thin, single layer on a fine mesh screen or clean paper. Place this setup in a cool, dark location that offers good air circulation for one to two weeks.
Once the flower heads are completely brittle, separate the minute seeds from the surrounding plant debris, known as chaff. Gently rub the dried heads between your hands over a container or a fine mesh sieve to loosen the seeds. The seeds are extremely small, and it is acceptable to store them with some chaff remaining, as this will not impact their viability.
For long-term preservation, transfer the cleaned seeds into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a sealed paper envelope. Store the container in a cool, dark, and dry environment to maintain a low moisture level. Labeling the container with the variety and the date of harvest ensures accurate record-keeping. Chamomile seeds typically remain viable for successful germination for three to four years.