Common Catnip Guide

An ombre of white to purple flowers and heart shaped leaves makes this member of the mint family a perfect addition to your windowsill, outdoor garden, or fresh cut bouquet! Catnips ability to soothe a distressed belly and anxious mind will make you fast friends but you might have to wrestle your furry feline companions cause the Nepeta Cataria that is produced when the leaves are damaged or bruised will have your little fluff ball going crazy for homegrown catnip.

TO SOW

Catnip grows best in warmer weather between 55°F-85°F. They do great in small spaces or gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends direct seeding.

If Direct Seeding

• Direct seed outside 3-4 weeks after last frost date; or

• Direct seed into a container 6 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 55°F-85°F; or

If Transplanting

Start the catnip seeds indoors 3 weeks before the last frost date in biodegradable pods that will let the roots grow; germination is best between 60°F-75°F. It can be transplanted outside 6-8 weeks later.

Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 4-6 inches apart with rows spaced 12-16 inches apart. Germination will take 8-14 days.

To speed up germination you have the option of stratifying the seeds - freeze the seeds overnight and then leave them to soak in water for 24 hours.

TO GROW

Catnip likes well-draining, sandy soil free of big rocks and weeds. They also like full sun or partial shade and does not need a lot of maintenance. Water every other week and let dry in between watering. No fertilizer is needed. Monitor to make sure it does not take over space of nearby plants.

Catnip does not need a lot of fertilizer, but you can water with compost tea during high growth periods or use 5-10-10 fertilizer at half strength.

TO REAP

Catnip is full grown in 75 days. Cut off stems near the base of the plant to promote bushy growth – catnip will regrow quickly wherever it is snipped. It can be harvested even when its flowering.

COMMON PESTS/DISEASES

Aphids, spider mites, thrips, whiteflies, flea beetles – weed often, no need to fertilize, neem oil, insecticidal soap

*Plant catnip with collard greens, beets, squash, broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes. Avoid planting with or near parsley. *