Chamomile - Roman - $3 pre-order and member price; $4 at plant sale

Roman chamomile, a low-growing perennial herb with the scientific name Chamaemelum nobile (also known as Anthemis nobilis), is widely used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It is popular in aromatherapy, skincare products, and herbal teas, known for its sweet, apple-like scent. Quick Growing Guide Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4–9. Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade; at least 6 hours of direct sun is ideal for maximum blooms. Soil: Well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. It is tolerant of poor soil but thrives with some organic matter. Watering: Keep soil moist for young plants; established plants are drought-tolerant but appreciate watering during dry spells. Height & Spread: Typically grows 3–6 inches tall and spreads 6–12 inches wide. Spacing: Space plants 6–12 inches apart for garden borders, or 4–8 inches apart if creating a dense lawn or ground cover. Propagation: Once established, you can easily propagate by dividing mature clumps in the spring. Maintenance and Care Pruning: Trim leggy stems back by one-third in late summer to encourage fresh, bushy growth and prepare the plant for winter. Fertilizing: Rarely necessary; over-fertilizing can lead to floppy stems and fewer flowers. Harvesting and Storage When to Pick: Harvest flowers when they are fully open and petals begin to arch backwards. How to Pick: Pinch off the flower heads by hand or with snips, avoiding the bitter stems. Drying: Spread flowers in a single layer in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Store in an airtight container for up to a year.