Catnip Growing Guide

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a hardy, perennial herb known for its aromatic leaves that cats love. It is a member of the mint family and is easy to grow in most gardens. Besides its appeal to felines, catnip is also used in teas and as a natural insect repellent. Catnip is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it a versatile addition to your herb garden.

     

Planting Catnip

Sunlight: Catnip thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Catnip can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It does well in soil that is not overly rich, as too much fertility can lead to less aromatic leaves.

When to Plant: Catnip seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date or sown directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. In milder climates, seeds can be sown in early spring or fall.

Starting Seeds Indoors: Sow seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them in. Catnip seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C). Seeds typically take 7-10 days to germinate.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 1/8 inch deep. Space the seeds 12-18 inches apart. If transplanting seedlings, space them 12-18 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart.

 

Caring for Catnip

Watering: Catnip is drought-tolerant and prefers soil that is allowed to dry out between waterings. Water the plants regularly during the first few weeks after planting to help them establish strong roots, then reduce watering frequency. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to avoid waterlogged conditions.

Fertilization: Catnip generally does not require fertilization. If your soil is particularly poor, you can apply a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer at planting time. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of essential oil production, which is what gives catnip its strong scent.

Pruning: Regularly prune catnip to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Prune the plants back by half in mid-summer to promote a second flush of growth. Removing spent flowers can also prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.

Pest and Disease Management: Catnip is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal issues, and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.

Containment: Catnip can spread rapidly and become invasive in some areas. Consider planting it in containers or in a garden bed with barriers to prevent it from taking over other areas of your garden.

 

Harvesting Catnip

When to Harvest: Catnip leaves can be harvested once the plant is well-established, usually after 8-12 weeks of growth. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun becomes too hot. Harvesting just before the plant flowers will yield the most aromatic leaves.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems, leaving at least 4-6 inches of growth to allow the plant to continue thriving. You can harvest individual leaves or entire stems, depending on your needs. The plant will continue to produce new growth after harvesting.

 

Drying, Storing and Using Catnip

Drying and Storing: To preserve catnip, dry the leaves and stems in a well-ventilated, shaded area. You can hang the stems upside down or spread the leaves on a screen. Once the leaves are completely dry, crumble them and store them in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Dried catnip can be stored for up to a year.

For Cats: Dried catnip can be used as a treat for cats, stuffed into toys, or sprinkled on scratching posts. Not all cats respond to catnip, but those that do often exhibit playful or relaxed behavior.

Culinary Uses: Catnip leaves can be used to make a calming herbal tea. Simply steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for a few minutes.

Insect Repellent: Fresh or dried catnip can be used as a natural insect repellent. It is particularly effective against mosquitoes. Rub fresh leaves on your skin or clothing to repel insects, or use dried leaves in sachets to deter pests indoors.

 

Catnip Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Catnip can be planted near vegetables like cabbage and broccoli to repel pests such as aphids and cabbage worms. However, avoid planting it near plants that you don't want cats to disturb, as cats may be drawn to the area.

Temperature Management: Catnip is cold-hardy and can tolerate light frost. In colder climates, mulching around the base of the plants can help protect the roots during winter.

Soil Preparation: Catnip prefers well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay soil, consider planting catnip in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.

Propagation: Besides growing from seeds, catnip can be propagated by division in spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant, separate it into smaller sections, and replant.

 

Growing catnip in your garden provides a steady supply of aromatic leaves for your feline friends, herbal teas, and natural insect repellent. Enjoy the ease of growing this hardy herb and its many uses in your home and garden!