Common Name: Catnip Scientific Name: Nepeta cataria Life Cycle: Perennial Description Detail: A hardy, aromatic perennial herb with soft, crinkled grey-green foliage and small, pale lavender to white flowers marked with purple. Catnip is well known for its attraction to cats and is also valued as an ornamental herb and pollinator plant. Days to Germinate: 7-14 days Bloom / Harvest: Blooms intermittently throughout the summer. Harvest young leaves and flowering stems as needed once plants are established. Leaves can be dried for use in cat toys or herbal preparations. Germination Needs: Sow seeds on the surface of moist, well-drained seed-starting mix and press gently into the soil. Keep consistently moist and provide light for germination. Avoid burying seeds deeply. Lighting: Full sun to partial sun Watering Needs: Keep soil evenly moist during germination and establishment. Once established, catnip is relatively drought tolerant and should be watered when the soil begins to dry. Starting Instructions: Direct sow outdoors in spring after the soil can be worked, or start indoors several weeks before the last frost. Press seeds gently into the soil surface and keep moist until germination. Transplant established seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Care Instructions: Plant in well-drained soil with good sunlight. Water regularly while young, then reduce watering once established. Trim plants after flowering to encourage fresh growth and help maintain a compact shape. Remove spent flower heads if self-seeding is not desired. Difficulty Level: Easy Garden Benefits: Attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators while providing an aromatic herb that is particularly attractive to many cats. The flowers and foliage also add texture and interest to herb gardens, perennial borders and informal gardens. Special Notes: Halifax Seed lists catnip as a hardy perennial growing approximately 60-90 cm (24-36") tall. Cats can respond strongly to catnip, although not every cat reacts to it. Cats should be supervised when offered fresh or dried catnip. Halifax Seed also notes that the leaves may be added to salads or brewed as a tea. Tips For Success: Sow seeds shallowly, keep the soil moist during germination, and provide plenty of sunlight. Once established, avoid overwatering. Harvest before or during flowering for aromatic foliage, and prune after flowering to encourage new growth. Companion Plants: Lavender, thyme, oregano, sage, rosemary, yarrow and other sun-loving perennial herbs.
