Colorado’s unpredictable spring weather makes late May the safest bet for planting chamomile. Knowing the best time to plant chamomile in Colorado can mean the difference between a thriving herb garden and a disappointing patch of wilted seedlings.
Chamomile is a hardy annual that loves cool weather, but Colorado’s late frosts and sudden temperature swings demand careful timing. This guide walks you through exactly when and how to plant chamomile for success in the Centennial State.
Best Time To Plant Chamomile In Colorado
For most Colorado gardeners, the ideal planting window falls between mid-May and early June. This timing avoids the last spring frost, which typically occurs between May 5 and May 20 depending on your elevation and region.
Chamomile seeds germinate best when soil temperatures reach 60-65°F. Colorado’s soil warms slowly in spring, especially at higher elevations. Waiting until late May gives the ground enough time to warm up properly.
If you live in lower elevations like Denver or Colorado Springs, you can plant as early as mid-May. Gardeners in mountain towns like Durango or Aspen should wait until early June or even mid-June.
Understanding Colorado’s Climate Zones
Colorado spans multiple USDA hardiness zones, from 3b in the mountains to 6b on the plains. Your specific location affects the best planting date.
- Front Range (Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins): Zone 5b-6a. Plant mid to late May.
- Western Slope (Grand Junction, Montrose): Zone 6b-7a. Plant early to mid May.
- Mountain regions (Leadville, Breckenridge): Zone 3b-4b. Plant late May to mid June.
- Southeastern plains (Pueblo, Lamar): Zone 5b-6b. Plant mid May.
Check your local frost dates using Colorado State University’s Extension resources. These dates vary by county and elevation.
Direct Sowing Vs. Indoor Starts
Chamomile grows best from direct sowing because it has a delicate taproot that doesn’t transplant well. However, Colorado’s short growing season sometimes makes indoor starts necessary.
For direct sowing, wait until after your last frost date. Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press them in lightly. Chamomile seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them deep.
If you start indoors, begin seeds 4-6 weeks before your last frost. Use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance during transplanting. Harden off seedlings for a week before moving them outside.
Fall Planting Options
Some Colorado gardeners successfully plant chamomile in fall for early spring blooms. This works best in milder areas like the Western Slope.
Sow seeds in late August or early September. The plants will establish roots before winter and go dormant. They resume growth in early spring and bloom several weeks earlier than spring-planted chamomile.
Fall planting carries risk. Harsh winters or heavy snow can kill young plants. Mulch heavily with straw or leaves for protection.
Soil Preparation For Colorado Gardens
Chamomile prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.6 and 7.5. Colorado’s alkaline soil often needs amendment.
- Test your soil pH using a home kit or send a sample to CSU Extension.
- If pH is above 7.5, add elemental sulfur or peat moss to lower it.
- Mix in 2-3 inches of compost to improve drainage and nutrients.
- Remove rocks and debris from the planting area.
- Rake the soil smooth before sowing seeds.
Chamomile is not heavy feeder. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which produce lush leaves but few flowers.
Watering Considerations In Colorado
Colorado’s arid climate means chamomile needs consistent moisture, especially during germination. The soil should stay damp but not waterlogged.
Water gently with a fine spray to avoid washing away tiny seeds. Once seedlings reach 2 inches tall, reduce watering to once or twice a week. Deep watering encourages strong root growth.
Drip irrigation works well for chamomile. It keeps foliage dry, reducing the risk of fungal diseases common in humid conditions.
Planting Chamomile In Containers
Container gardening offers more control over soil and moisture. This is a good option for Colorado gardeners with poor soil or limited space.
Choose a pot at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes. Fill with a lightweight potting mix amended with compost. Sow seeds on the surface and mist gently.
Place containers in a spot that gets full sun but some afternoon shade in hotter areas. Containers dry out faster than ground soil, so check moisture daily.
Companion Planting Benefits
Chamomile is a excellent companion plant in Colorado gardens. It attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs that prey on aphids.
- Plant chamomile near cabbage, broccoli, and kale to repel cabbage moths.
- Grow it alongside onions to improve their flavor.
- Use chamomile as a ground cover under taller plants like tomatoes.
- Avoid planting near fennel, which can cross-pollinate.
The strong scent of chamomile also masks the smell of other plants from pests.
Harvesting Chamomile At The Right Time
Chamomile blooms about 60-65 days after planting. Harvest flowers when the petals begin to curl back and the center cone is raised.
Pick flowers in the morning after dew dries but before the heat of the day. This is when essential oil content is highest.
Use scissors or your fingers to snip the stem just below the flower head. Leave some flowers on the plant to self-seed for next year.
Drying And Storing Chamomile
Spread harvested flowers on a screen or drying rack in a warm, dark, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which degrades the oils.
Flowers are fully dry when they feel crispy and the petals crumble easily. This usually takes 5-7 days. Store in an airtight jar away from light and heat.
Properly dried chamomile retains its potency for up to a year. Use it for tea, salves, or potpourri.
Common Problems With Chamomile In Colorado
Colorado’s unique growing conditions create specific challenges for chamomile. Here are the most common issues and solutions.
Frost Damage
Late spring frosts can kill young chamomile plants. Cover seedlings with row cover or old bedsheets if frost is predicted.
If frost damages the tops, plants may recover from the base. Cut back dead growth and water well.
Drought Stress
Chamomile needs consistent moisture but can’t tolerate standing water. Colorado’s dry air causes rapid evaporation.
Mulch around plants with straw or grass clippings to retain moisture. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Pests
Aphids sometimes attack chamomile, especially in hot weather. Spray them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails can be a problem in wet springs. Hand pick them at night or set up beer traps.
Poor Germination
Chamomile seeds need light to germinate. If you cover them with too much soil, they won’t sprout.
Seeds also need consistent moisture. If the soil dries out during germination, the seeds die. Mist the area daily until seedlings appear.
Extending The Chamomile Season
Succession planting lets you enjoy chamomile flowers all summer. Sow a new batch of seeds every 3-4 weeks until mid-July.
This works well because chamomile matures quickly and doesn’t like extreme heat. Later plantings may produce fewer flowers but still provide a harvest.
In Colorado’s high-altitude areas, the growing season is short. Stick to one main planting in late May or early June.
Self-Seeding For Future Years
Chamomile self-seeds readily if you leave some flowers on the plant. Let the flower heads dry and drop their seeds.
In mild winters, these seeds germinate the following spring. This natural cycle reduces your work each year.
Thin out volunteer seedlings in spring to prevent overcrowding. Space plants 6-8 inches apart for best growth.
Regional Variations Across Colorado
Colorado’s diverse geography means planting times vary widely. Here are specific recommendations for different regions.
Denver Metro Area
Denver’s last frost date averages May 5-10. Plant chamomile outdoors around May 15-20. The city’s urban heat island effect warms soil faster than surrounding areas.
Choose a location with afternoon shade if your garden gets intense sun. Denver’s summer temperatures can stress chamomile.
Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs sits at 6,000 feet elevation. Last frost occurs around May 15-20. Plant in late May or early June.
The area’s sandy soil drains quickly. Add compost to improve water retention. Water more frequently than in clay soils.
Boulder And Foothills
Boulder’s last frost is around May 10-15. However, foothills areas can have frosts into June. Watch local weather forecasts carefully.
Plant in raised beds or slopes for better drainage. Boulder’s clay soil can become waterlogged in spring.
Western Slope
Grand Junction has a milder climate with last frost around April 20-30. Plant chamomile in early to mid May.
The region’s hot summers mean chamomile may stop flowering in July. Plant early to get a good harvest before heat stress.
Mountain Towns
Leadville at 10,000 feet has a very short growing season. Last frost can occur as late as June 15. Plant chamomile in mid to late June.
Use cold frames or cloches to extend the season. Choose fast-maturing chamomile varieties like German chamomile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant chamomile in Colorado in August?
August planting is risky in most of Colorado. The plants may not mature before frost. Only try this in mild areas like the Western Slope, and choose early-maturing varieties.
Does chamomile grow back every year in Colorado?
German chamomile is an annual that dies after one season. It self-seeds readily, so new plants appear the following year. Roman chamomile is a perennial that returns each year in milder climates, but Colorado’s harsh winters often kill it.
How much sun does chamomile need in Colorado?
Chamomile needs full sun, meaning 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hotter parts of Colorado, some afternoon shade prevents stress. Morning sun is best for flower production.
What type of chamomile grows best in Colorado?
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is the best choice for Colorado. It grows quickly, tolerates cooler temperatures, and produces abundant flowers. Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is less reliable in Colorado’s climate.
Can I plant chamomile seeds directly in Colorado soil?
Yes, direct sowing is the preferred method. Colorado’s soil needs preparation with compost and proper pH adjustment. Wait until after the last frost and keep the soil consistently moist during germination.
Final Tips For Colorado Chamomile Success
Start with fresh seeds from a reputable source. Old seeds have lower germination rates. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until planting.
Mark your planting date on a calendar. Note when flowers appear so you can refine your timing next year. Colorado’s weather varies annually, so keeping records helps.
Don’t overwater chamomile once established. Colorado’s low humidity means less fungal disease risk, but overwatering still causes root rot. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
Harvest flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers extends the flowering period. Stop harvesting in late August to allow some flowers to go to seed.
Share your chamomile harvest with neighbors. Dried chamomile makes a thoughtful gift. It’s also a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
Colorado’s unique climate requires patience and observation. Pay attention to your specific microclimate and adjust planting dates accordingly. With proper timing, chamomile thrives in Colorado gardens.
Remember that the best time to plant chamomile in Colorado is after the last frost when soil has warmed. This simple rule guides all your planting decisions. Happy gardening.