What is chamomile?
The editor provides netizens with an explanation of what chamomile is and shares related experience on the planting methods of chamomile, which is sure to be helpful to you. Let's learn about it together!
Chamomile is a plant from the aster family, native to Europe. It is a very fresh herb that can be used as a substitute for lavender. It is also very resilient and easy to care for, making it great for fresh cut flowers or potted plants. So, how exactly should it be cared for in a pot? Let's find out.
1. Potting Soil Selection
Like other aster plants, chamomile is robust and does not have high soil requirements. For potting, it is recommended to use a mixture of garden soil, humus, and sand to prevent compaction that may affect root development when using garden soil alone. For the pot, a depth of about 20 centimeters and a width of over 30 centimeters is suggested.
2. Care Environment
The care environment for chamomile should be cool. When it is excessively hot during the day, such as temperatures over 37°C, it should be placed in a slightly shaded position. Avoid excessive shade and ensure sufficient sunlight and good ventilation. When the weather starts to cool down, it should be moved to a slightly cooler and warmer place for care.
3. Seedling Propagation
Chamomile can be propagated through seeding or division. The usual time for sowing chamomile is in autumn, 6-8 weeks before the first frost. Start by growing chamomile in seedling trays, spreading seeds evenly on the soil surface, then covering them with a half-centimeter layer of fine sand, just enough to cover the seeds.
4. Water and Fertilizer Management
Watering chamomile should not be too frequent, once every 7-10 days is sufficient. Avoid excessive watering to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, chamomile does not require much fertilizer. During the growing period, a relatively dilute fertilizer can be applied, usually once a month.
5. Proper Pruning
In the planting and care of chamomile, pruning the top can promote the growth of lateral branches for a better columnar shape, resulting in more blooms later. Also, deadheading, withering leaves, and branches should be pruned in time to avoid unnecessary nutrient loss.
6. Disease and Pest Control
Common diseases of chamomile include leaf spot and stem rot, which can be treated with a 65% zinc omadine wettable powder spray at 600 times dilution. For pests, look out for盲蝽 (盲椿象) and leaf miners, which can be treated with a 25% carbaryl wettable powder spray at 500 times dilution.
Overall, potted chamomile has strong ornamental value and good air purification capabilities. Mastering the care methods will ensure healthy growth, with bright and fragrant flowers when in bloom.
The introduction above on what chamomile is and a comprehensive explanation of chamomile planting methods aims to provide a starting point and solve your green plant problems.