Harvest chamomile flowers by cutting them off the stem just below the flowerhead, ideally around midday on a sunny day.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Timing is Key: The best time to harvest chamomile is around midday on a sunny day. This is when the flowers are most open and contain the highest concentration of essential oils, which contribute to their flavor and therapeutic properties.
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Identifying Ready Flowers: Look for flowers that are fully open and have a relatively flat or slightly downward-facing petals.
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Harvesting Technique: Use small scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower heads off the stem, just below the base of the flower. Be careful not to damage the surrounding plant.
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Gentle Handling: Handle the chamomile flowers gently to avoid bruising them, which can reduce their quality.
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Multiple Harvests: Chamomile plants will continue to produce flowers throughout the season. Harvest regularly to encourage further blooming.
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Drying for Storage: After harvesting, spread the flowers in a single layer on a clean screen or cloth in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade the essential oils. Turn the flowers occasionally to ensure even drying. The drying process usually takes about 1-2 weeks.
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Storage: Once the flowers are completely dry, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly dried and stored chamomile flowers can retain their quality for up to a year.
