How to Grow Catnip
Wikimedia Commons
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
herbCatnip is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family known for its stimulating effects on cats. It produces small, pale purple or white flowers and aromatic, heart-shaped leaves that can be dried or used fresh. The plant is hardy, low-maintenance, and self-seeds readily in most climates.
When should you plant Catnip in your zone?
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Example Catnip timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Catnip
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Catnip
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Catnip dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; extremely cold and heat hardy
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Seed Germination
7-14 daysSeeds are tiny and require light to germinate. Small cotyledons emerge within 7-10 days.
Sow directly on soil surface or press gently into substrate. Keep moist but not waterlogged. Provide light. Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost danger passes.
Seedling to Young Plant
3-4 weeksFirst true leaves appear, followed by the characteristic mint-family leaf structure. Plant develops a low rosette of foliage.
Thin seedlings to 18 inches apart once they have 2-3 true leaves. Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy. Provide full sun or bright indoor light.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant grows vigorously, producing numerous stems and heart-shaped leaves. Foliage becomes dense and bushy.
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent early flowering. Water regularly during dry spells. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer or compost tea if desired.
Flowering
4-6 weeksTall flower spikes emerge from leaf axils, producing small, pale purple, pink, or white tubular flowers. Bees and pollinators visit heavily.
Harvest leaves before flowering for maximum potency, or allow some flowers to bloom for aesthetic appeal and pollinators. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
Seed Set & Dormancy
Varies; seeds mature in late summer through fallFlowers fade and small seed capsules develop. In fall, above-ground growth dies back; roots remain dormant underground.
Allow some flowers to set seed for self-seeding next year, or collect seed heads before they dry and drop. Cut plant back to 3-4 inches in late fall to prepare for winter dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers when young; neem oil or insecticidal soap if heavy infestation; encourage beneficial insects
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; yellow sticky traps
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; neem oil; sulfur dust in severe cases
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Water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; introduce ladybugs
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Improve drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants; ensure good air circulation
Uses
Herbal Tea & Relaxation
CulinaryFresh or dried catnip leaves brew into a mild, minty tea traditionally used for digestive support and relaxation. The flavor is subtle and pleasant, similar to chamomile or mint tea. [source]
Cat Enrichment & Toy Filler
HouseholdDried catnip leaves are the primary ingredient in cat toys and provide powerful feline stimulation. Most cats respond with playfulness, rolling, and contentment lasting 10-15 minutes per exposure. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalCatnip has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries to support digestive health, promote restful sleep, and ease minor tension. Modern herbalists often recommend it as a mild calming tonic. [source]
Dried Wreaths & Crafts
CraftDried catnip stems and flowers are attractive in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. They retain their aroma and appearance well when properly dried and stored. [source]
Pollinator & Bee Garden
WildlifeCatnip flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. The plant supports diverse insect populations while flowering. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves anytime after the plant is 6 inches tall, but wait until just before flowering for maximum potency of nepetalactone. Pinch off top 4-6 inches of stems. For drying, cut stems in early morning after dew dries but before the heat of the day. Dry in bundles hung upside down in a warm, airy location away from direct sun (1-2 weeks). Store dried herb in airtight containers away from light. The plant typically produces 2-3 harvests per season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 About 70% of cats respond to catnip due to a genetic trait; kittens under 8 weeks old and senior cats often show no response.
- 🌱 The active compound in catnip, nepetalactone, is actually a natural insecticide and repels mosquitoes, cockroaches, and other pests—the opposite effect it has on cats.
- 🌱 Catnip has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was used by ancient Greeks and Romans for medicinal purposes long before its effects on cats were widely known.
Gardening Terms
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