Catnip—also called Catmint or True Catnip—is a perennial herb that is native to parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Plant catnip seeds inside or outdoors in full sun or partial shade. As the name implies, catnip is ideal for making cats happy and frisky, but it can also be used to flavor teas or to enjoy as an aesthetic element in the garden. Its purple blooms attract pollinators.
- Plant in the Spring.
- Requires average watering.
- Full sun to partial shade.
- Perennial.
How to Sow and Plant: Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep. Seeds typically germinate I 10-14 days. Plants should be spaced 18-24 inches apart when they reach 4-5’ tall.
How to Grow: Start seeds indoors near a sunny window 6 weeks before transplanting to the garden, after the danger of the last frost. Or sow directly into the garden if your area has a longer growing season, when the danger of frost has passed.
Where to Plant Catnip Seeds: Catnip performs best in average, dry-to-medium, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. This plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in dry soil with a pH of about 6.6.
How to Harvest: Harvest leaves by cutting the stems or shearing the flower spikes after the plant reaches 6 inches or taller. If harvesting for cats, wait until the plant blooms. The foliage will keep its scent best when air-dried. You can easily propagate catnip by dividing an established plant.