Imagine being able to enjoy a cup of herbal tea chamomile perfectly flavored, made with your own hands and with flowers grown directly in your garden or balcony.
Growing your own chamomile not only guarantees you a delicious, tea-free infusion chemical additivesbut it also offers you the opportunity to experience the pleasure and satisfaction of caring for a plant with countless virtues.
Learn how to get a great, versatile collection with this comprehensive guide.
Why grow your own chamomile?
Growing your own chamomile is a choice both economical That ecological. In fact, store-bought infusions can often lose flavor due to processing industrial.
With homegrown chamomile, you have the certainty to have a 100% plant naturalwithout artificial preservatives.
Furthermore, chamomile is a plant ornamental which enriches your environment with its flowers similar to delicate daisies, perfect for a herb garden o one flowered balcony.
When and how to plant chamomile?
The choice of variety is fundamental: the Roman chamomile it’s a plant lively which can be planted in primaverawhile the German chamomilean annual, is sown from March.
Choose a location very sunny with a land light e well drained.
Seeds or young plants should be placed about 20 cm apart to allow them enough space to grow. If the terrain is too much compactadd del sand o compost to improve the structure.
How to maintain chamomile for optimal harvesting?
Good news: chamomile is a plant resistant and not very demanding. Once established, it requires little care.
Remember to water moderately to avoid accumulations of water that can cause diseases and to weed regularly to avoid competition with them weeds.
Although chamomile tolerates them moderate droughtsa little help with a natural fertilizer in spring it can enhance flowering, while still taking advantage of the nutrients already present in the ground.
When and how to collect flowers?
Chamomile flowers are harvested when they are fully grown openbut before they begin to wither. Use scissors or pinch gently to avoid damaging the lime trees.
The essential drying process
Once harvested, the flowers must be dry yourself well to preserve its qualities. Spread them out in a single layer in one place dry and away from light.
Store the dried flowers in a airtight jar to maintain flavor and virtues for months.
Preparing a perfect chamomile herbal tea
Add a tablespoon of dried flowers to a cup of water hot (around 90°C) and leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes. For a tasty note, add miele or a slice of lemon.
Chamomile offers properties calming e digestiveideal for a restful sleep or to soothe slight inflammation.
Important precautions
Although chamomile is mild, some people may be sensitive to it allergic. If irritation appears, it is recommended to consult a doctor professional of health.
