Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a hardy perennial herb that is easy to grow, making it a favorite among gardeners. Known for its gray-green leaves and clusters of small white or purple flowers, catnip thrives in various conditions. Varieties like lemon catnip and Greek catnip offer unique traits. Growing catnip is straightforward, even for beginners.
- Common Names: Catmint, Catswort
- Scientific Name: Nepeta cataria
- Plant Type: Edible, Herbaceous Perennial
- Plant Height: 2–3 ft.
- Growing Difficulty: Easy
- Bloom Time: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Hardiness Zone: 3–7 (Find your hardiness zone here)
- Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Soil pH: 6.1 to 7.8
- Watering Frequency: Drought tolerant once established
- Plant Spacing: 18 to 24 inches apart
Different Methods to Grow Catnip
Using Seeds
Start seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost. Place seeds in a freezer overnight, then soak in water for 24 hours. Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep in moistened seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist; germination occurs within two weeks. Move seedlings outside after the last frost.
- Pros: Cost-effective, allows for a large number of plants.
- Cons: Longer time to maturity, requires initial preparation and care.
Propagation via Cuttings
Best done in spring or early summer. Cut a 4- to 6-inch piece of stem at a 45-degree angle below a leaf node. Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Place the cutting in water or moist soilless potting mix. Keep in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Roots should appear within a week.
- Pros: Quick root formation, promotes bushier growth on the parent plant.
- Cons: Requires careful handling and maintenance of cuttings.
Propagation via Division
Dig up the mature plant, keeping roots intact. Divide the clump in half using sterile shears or a sharp spade. Replant the clumps at the same depth as before. This method reinvigorates overgrown plants and provides immediate establishment of new plants.
- Pros: Reinvigorates overgrown plants, immediate establishment of new plants.
- Cons: Can be labor-intensive, risk of damaging roots.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
Catnip thrives in well-drained, loamy or sandy soil and can tolerate poor, rocky conditions. It requires full sun but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot climates. Ideal locations include containers, raised beds, and areas with boundaries to control its spread.
When to Plant Catnip
Plant catnip in spring after the last frost date. Start seeds indoors six weeks before the final frost. This timing ensures optimal growth and blooming from late spring through summer. Avoid planting during frost-prone periods to protect young plants from cold damage.
Growing Catnip Outdoors
Planting catnip in the spring after the threat of frost has passed is the best method for growing catnip outdoors. This method is the easiest because catnip is a fast and aggressive grower that can quickly reach its mature size in a single season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow catnip in your garden:
- When to Plant. Start seeds indoors six weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors in the spring after the threat of frost has passed.
- Selecting a Planting Site. Choose a location with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Ensure no taller plants create too much shade.
- Spacing and Depth. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart. Position nursery plants and seedlings at the same depth as in their previous container. Lightly cover seeds with soil.
- Light. Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot climates, offer some afternoon shade.
- Soil. Use well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6.1 to 7.8).
- Water. Keep the soil of seedlings lightly moist. Mature plants need watering only during prolonged droughts.
- Temperature and Humidity. Ideal temperatures are between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure good air circulation in high humidity.
- Fertilizer. Mix compost into the soil at planting time. Additional feeding is typically unnecessary unless the soil is very poor.
Growing Catnip Indoors
Growing catnip indoors is entirely possible and can be quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow catnip successfully at home:
- Choose a Sunny Spot. Select a windowsill that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Prepare the Soil. Use well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.8.
- Plant Seeds or Seedlings. Start seeds indoors six weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep in moistened seed-starting mix. If using seedlings, plant them at the same depth as in their previous container.
- Watering. Keep the soil of seedlings lightly moist. Mature plants need watering only during prolonged droughts.
- Maintain Temperature. Ensure the indoor temperature stays between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Ensure Good Air Circulation. Prevent fungal growth by maintaining good air circulation around the plants.
- Fertilize Sparingly. Mix compost into the soil at planting time. Additional feeding is typically unnecessary unless the soil is very poor.
- Harvesting. Harvest catnip when it is in bloom, ideally in the late morning. Cut off entire stems or the whole plant and dry the stems upside-down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated space for two to three weeks.
Growing catnip in a pot is a good option because it will prevent the plant from spreading into unwanted places. Use a container that’s at least 12 inches in diameter, and make sure it has a drainage hole.
Caring for Catnip
- Watering: Once your catnip is established, it becomes quite drought-tolerant. Water only during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Catnip isn't a heavy feeder. Mix compost into the soil at planting time. If your soil is particularly poor, you can add a layer of compost each spring or use an all-purpose liquid plant food sparingly.
- Pest Control: While catnip is generally pest-resistant, it can attract cats that may damage the plant. To protect your catnip, consider using garden fencing or stakes around the plant. Growing catnip in containers can also help keep it safe from feline friends.
- Harvesting: The best time to harvest catnip is when it's in full bloom, ideally in the late morning after the dew has dried. Cut off entire stems or the whole plant if needed. Hang the stems upside-down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated space for two to three weeks to dry. Once dried, crumble the leaves and flowers for use.
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps keep your catnip tidy and encourages more blooms. Remove flowers before they go to seed to prevent unwanted spreading. Pinch back stems on young plants to promote bushier growth, and cut back mature plants to a few inches from the soil after the first frost.
Common Challenges With Catnip
Catnip is a remarkably easy plant to grow, even for those without a green thumb. It thrives in various soil types, from loamy to rocky, and is quite drought-tolerant once established. In my experience, catnip grows vigorously and can quickly reach its mature size within a single season. Its resilience makes it a favorite among gardeners looking for a low-maintenance herb that can withstand different growing conditions.
However, growing catnip does come with its set of challenges. One common issue is its tendency to spread aggressively, which can make it somewhat invasive. Additionally, catnip struggles in extreme heat and high humidity, often leading to fungal growth. Overwatering can also be problematic, causing root rot. And let's not forget the cats—while they love catnip, their enthusiasm can sometimes damage the plant. To mitigate these issues, consider growing catnip in containers or using garden fencing to keep it in check.
Safety of Catnip for Pets
Catnip is safe for cats but can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. It is generally safe for dogs and other pets. If you suspect poisoning, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water catnip?
Once established, catnip is quite drought-tolerant. Water only during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Can catnip grow in poor soil?
Yes, catnip can tolerate poor, rocky, and dry soils. However, it thrives best in well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6.1 to 7.8).
What is the best time to harvest catnip?
The best time to harvest catnip is when it's in full bloom, ideally in the late morning after the dew has dried. Cut off entire stems or the whole plant if needed.
How can I prevent my catnip from spreading?
To prevent catnip from spreading, consider growing it in containers or using garden fencing. Regular pruning and removing flowers before they go to seed can also help control its spread.
