I have a sweet wee chamomile plant in the garden that is as generous as she is beautiful.
This morning’s was my third harvest this season and she is still producing like crazy. Of all of my experiences growing herbs for tea, salves, and culinary goodies, chamomile has taught me so much more than I expected.
Here are some lessons she’s offered up:
1. Sometimes you have to recognize when you are at your zenith and most powerful. Then, shed your blossoms, recharge, and blossom even stronger next time.
2. Periods of dormancy are therapeutic and required to stay alive.
3. What you produce has the potential to be therapeutic if you allow it to be. Otherwise it is ornamental – lovely but fleeting.
4. Growth doesn’t happen without care from others. Allow it and choose people who will understand that symbiotic bond.
5. Pests and invasions and possible failure to thrive is real. Remain diligent in your attention otherwise you may discover too late that which has already sucked the life out of you.
