How to grow an aromatic chamomile lawn

We all know chamomile from the sweet, fragrant, calming tea that we usually enjoy at night to aid in easy and peaceful sleep.

Chamomile is an apigenin packed flower mimics the effect of sedative medications, promoting relaxation and drowsiness. Apigenin, a powerful antioxidant, also helps to calm the nervous system, contributing to a sense of tranquillity that makes it easier to fall asleep. This fragrant flower can also be grown in home gardens.

Which chamomile variety to use

Chamomile lawns have a number of benefits over grass lawns in that they don’t need to be mowed, fertilized, or edged as often and are conducive to conditions with limited mower access and low foot traffic. The German species, Matricicaria chamomilla, grows to a height of 30 to 60 centimetres. It is used for decorative purposes and medicinal purposes.

For lawn alternatives, Chamaemelum nobile, an English variety, provides a low-growing, creeping habit. However, Chamomile nobile is a flowering variety and is not suitable for lawn substitutes.

Chamomile ‘Treneague’, on the other hand a non-flowering dwarf cultivar that is commonly known as Roman chamomile or lawn chamomile. It’s a non-flowering, low-growing perennial ground cover with a strong, aromatic, apple-like scent. It’s often used to create fragrant lawns or as a ground cover in gardens, offering a wildlife-friendly and low-maintenance alternative to traditional grass.

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How to grow a chamomile lawn

Chamomile lawn plants thrive in full sun but can tolerate dappled shade. They require light soil and should be planted 10-20 centimetres apart. You can buy or divide plants from seed, or grow them in pots. Sow seeds under cover in early spring in compost mixed with perlite.

Plant the plants by late spring. After 12 weeks, walk on the lawn rarely to allow it to establish. Maintain the lawn by keeping it moist, weeding out manually, and trimming dead flower heads. Enjoy the minimal care green lawn with its sweet apple aroma.

Chamomile provides more than just a calming night-time tea—it’s a multitasking plant with soothing advantages and garden-appealing attractiveness.

From developing a fragrant, low-maintenance grass with the ‘Treneague’ type to simply appreciating its subtle fragrance, chamomile is a helpful and lovely element for any area. With some attention, you can grow a serene, scented haven in your very own garden.

ALSO SEE: CULTIVATING CALM: TIPS FOR GROWING CHAMOMILE IN YOUR GARDEN