How to Grow a Chamomile Lawn—a Charming, Low-Maintenance Alternative to Grass

Chamomile is more than just a cozy herb found in teas; it's also a whimsical plant that can be grown as an alternative to lawn grass. A member of the daisy family, chamomile is a low-maintenance option for areas with minimal foot traffic. Plus, it’s somewhat drought-tolerant once established, making it lower maintenance than turf.

Ahead, we spoke to horticulturists who share everything you need to know about growing a chamomile lawn.

Where to Plant a Chamomile Lawn 

Plant chamomile in a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Another consideration when deciding where to plant: chamomile lawns can't handle much foot traffic. Footsteps, a rambunctious dog, or wheeled items will leave a mark, so the key is incorporating stepping stones or walkways to minimize traffic on the chamomile.

“Chamomile makes an attractive addition to any pathway,” says horticulturist Galen Gates. If used among stepping stones or patios, it’s a good idea to plant chamomile slightly below grade (rather than at soil level) in a well-drained substrate. "This allows the plants to be stepped over—not on. As long as the crown of the plant is slightly below grade, it cannot be damaged by footfalls," Gates says.

When to Plant 

Spring is the best time of year to plant chamomile once the threat of frost has passed. “This timing allows for root formation and consequently carbohydrate storage, critical for health and resilience against difficult growing conditions," says Gates. You may be able to sow chamomile seeds in the fall as well, depending on where you live and the type of chamomile you're growing.

How to Plant 

If you’re planting chamomile from seed, start the seeds in trays about four to six weeks before your area's last frost date. Once it's warm enough, the seeds can also be sown directly into the ground, says Teresa Watkins, horticulturist and University of Florida master gardener. The seeds need light to germinate, so press them into the soil when sowing rather than fully covering. Newly-sown areas will need daily moisture in order to germinate, then watering two or three times a week until they’re established (about 3 months), Watkins says.

Chamomile Lawn Care 

Chamomile is relatively low-maintenance, but there are some things to keep in mind when growing this plant.

Sunlight

Plant chamomile in an area it will receive ample sun, says Gates. Full sun is best, but in a pinch you can get away with partial shade, though if it’s too shady you’ll end up with less than 100 percent coverage. 

Soil

Chamomile grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow well in poor soils too, but it won't grow to be as lush and healthy.

Water

Chamomile should be watered regularly when it's first planted, but won't need as much moisture once it's established. It's best to water chamomile deeply less often rather than watering a little bit every day. Let the plant dry out slightly in between watering.

Fertilizer

No fertilizer is needed when growing chamomile. Instead, amend the soil with organic matter, like compost, prior to planting.

Temperature

Depending on the type of chamomile you're growing, this plant thrives in zones 3 to 9. It prefers mild temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can withstand warmer conditions.

Pruning

Chamomile is a low-maintenance plant and typically doesn't require pruning, especially if you plant 'Treneague', the dwarf variety. German chamomile or taller varieties of Roman chamomile that flower may need to be deadheaded to keep the lawn from looking scruffy.

Types of Chamomile

There are many types of chamomile but here are two that you’ll specifically want to know about:

Roman Chamomile

Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). is known as the chamomile, says Gates. “It is a perennial growing 6 to 12 inches high with fragrant, white flowers sporting yellow centers," she says.

The most popular chamomile cultivar for lawns is ‘Treneague,' which is a dwarf variety of C. nobile. It’s a dense ground cover that only reaches 4 inches tall and doesn’t produce flowers. The lack of flowers eliminates the need to deadhead your chamomile lawn and ensures it doesn’t grow too tall. 

German Chamomile

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an annual that grows to 2 feet tall with white flowers and yellow centers. This variety of chamomile can re-seed, but is not guaranteed to show each year. The height of German chamomile makes it less suitable as a lawn alternative.

How Often to Mow a Chamomile Lawn

One of the nice things about a chamomile lawn is that low-growing varieties naturally mature at a height of around 2 to 4 inches and don’t grow beyond that. So mowing a chamomile lawn isn’t really something you have to do as often; it’s a much more rustic and natural look.

Common Problems 

As charming and hardy as chamomile might be for your landscape, it’s not without a handful of potential issues.

Compaction

Chamomile is very fragrant when touched, which is why we love it in a relaxing cup of tea, but the herb doesn’t take compaction, says Watkins. “So, if you are planting it in an area with any foot traffic, pavers or steppingstones will be necessary.”

Pests

Chamomile can be pest-free when planted in the right site, but in extreme heat or humidity it can be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and thrips. “Treat with an organic insecticidal soap according to the label," says Watkins. Bottom line: aim to keep your chamomile stress-free for best success.

Excessive Moisture

One of chamomile’s best attributes—its hardiness in dry weather—can become a bit of a downside in wet conditions. “Because it also doesn’t need a lot of water, the rainy season can make chamomile more susceptible to rot and fungus,” says Watkins. “Good air circulation and a preventive fungicide, like neem oil, will help take care of the issue before it happens.”