Gardeners looking to give their seedlings a healthy start this summer are being encouraged to turn to a natural solution already found in most kitchens—chamomile tea. Known for its calming effects on people, chamomile also offers impressive benefits for plants, particularly young seedlings.
According to gardening experts from Pocket Hose, chamomile tea is rich in minerals and tannins that support healthy plant development.
More importantly, it contains anti-fungal properties that help protect vulnerable seedlings from damping-off disease—a common issue that causes young plants to suddenly collapse and die due to fungal infections.
To see a visible improvement in seedling vitality, gardeners are advised to use a cooled, weak chamomile tea solution three to four times per week. The tea can be lightly misted over the seedlings using a spray bottle or poured into tray liners when using soil blocks.
After misting, seedlings should be allowed to dry naturally in sunlight, which helps prevent excess moisture—a breeding ground for fungi.
Gardeners should also ensure that they use clean containers and fresh soil to minimize the risk of fungal spores. If any signs of damping-off appear, misting can be increased to more than four times weekly, continuing until the seedlings are strong enough to be planted outdoors.
Chamomile tea not only supports seed germination but also creates a safer, chemical-free environment in which flowers and other plants can thrive. This natural remedy is an easy and eco-friendly way to promote plant health and beauty throughout the gardening season.
