Chamomile Farming in Kenya

Chamomile is an herb from the Asteraceae family that is rich in Vitamins A and C. It is grown organically, so no Chemical Fertilizers or Pesticides are used, making it economically affordable and easy to grow. It also contains essential oils and antioxidants.

Soil Preparation

Chamomile requires moist, well-compostable, and light soil—basically, well-drained sandy soil. The soil ph should be between 6.5 and 7.5. You can add about two inches of compost and ensure the area is full of sunlight.

Climate

Chamomile does not require hot weather during planting, hence it’s important to start planting early (March-August). Chamomile requires a temperature of 180 degrees. Plant the seedlings half an inch deep, two inches apart.

Planting The Seeds

Its best to plant chamomile seeds in a nursery bed. During this period, watering is essential to avoid erosion. After a month of consistent watering, you can now proceed to transplant the seedlings on your Shamba.

Watering

Chamomile does not require a wet ground. Always make sure the soil is evenly moist throughout the growing season. Too much rain or wetness may destroy the crop.

Pest and Disease Management

The most common pests that affect chamomile is Aphids and Caterpillars. Using repellents is the best way to control pests and diseases. The fact that chamomile is a flower, it is not easily affected by pests and diseases.

Fertilization

It’s advisable to use pure organic fertilizer.

Harvesting

Immediately, you notice the emergence of small flowers, it’s advisable to pluck them off their stems gently. We only pick flowers without the stems. Harvesting can be done weekly.

Preservation

Dry the chamomile flowers in a cool place, free from insects and with enough air circulation. It takes about 10 days for proper drying to happen while in a solar dryer.

Marketing

You only need 80 grams of chamomile seeds for an acre. You can then harvest 300kgs – 400kgs from an acre. Your produce varies depending on how much you cultivate the crop.

One kg of chamomile fetches between Kes 800 – Kes 1,000 in Kenya. Some consumers buy chamomile for tea, while others buy and convert the flowers into essential oils. The export market is more lucrative, especially in the Asian and Middle East Countries.