Seed Depth: 1/8–1/4 inch

Seed Spacing: 12–18 inches

Row Spacing: 18–24 inches

Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

Days to Sprout: 7–14 days

Days to Maturity: 70–90 days

Growth Habit: Upright, bushy perennial

Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hotter climates.

Soil Type: Thrives in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Adding compost improves growth.

When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1/8–1/4 inch deep, spacing them 12–18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to maintain proper spacing.

Indoor Sowing: Start seeds in trays or small pots and transplant when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall.

Succession Planting: Not necessary; catnip is a perennial that will regrow each year.

Watering: Water consistently but avoid overwatering; catnip tolerates some drought once established.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce its aromatic potency.

Pruning: Prune regularly to promote bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Remove flower heads to extend the growing season.

Pest and Disease Control: Generally pest-resistant, but watch for aphids and spider mites. Use organic pest controls if necessary.

When to Harvest: Harvest leaves and stems once plants reach 6–8 inches tall. For optimal potency, harvest just before flowering.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or a knife to snip stems, leaving at least 2 inches of growth to encourage regrowth.

Seed Collection: Allow flowers to dry on the plant and collect seeds from the spent blooms.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.