Growing Catnip

If one of your cats loves catnip, you're probably hooked on this easy-to-grow perennial. Catnip (Nepeta cataria as well as other Nepeta species) is actually part of the mint family. It grows like a weed in some areas, and has an untidy habit, spreading quickly to take up any available space. Most catnip varieties grow to a height of about three to four feet, and plants can get top-heavy with large serrated leaves, toppling over in an untidy heap when it rains or when the wind blows.

Give catnip rich, well-drained soil. It tolerates most soil conditions (pH 6.1 to 7.8) but does like regular watering and partial to full sun. Catnip can have an aroma that's a cross between peppermint and skunk. It isn't to everyone's taste so keep plants away from your deck or patio.

Propagating Catnip

Start seeds indoors in spring. New plants can be small and delicate. Keep seedlings uniformly moist, and keep them away from the family cat. If cats in the garden are a problem, keep young plants under a protective mesh screen. Plant seedlings 12 to 15 inches apart in an area that's protected from the wind but still receives good airflow.

Catnip Diseases and Pests

Catnip is prone to mildew. Make sure to keep plants pruned and keep the center of the plant open so that the air can circulate freely. Catnip can also have problems with whitefly and spider mites.

Growing Catnip Indoors

If you have a window that receives at least six hours of sunlight a day, catnip can grow indoors for you year round. Just make sure to keep it moist at all times, and pinch off flowers to encourage leaf growth. Catnip also works well in an indoor hydroponic garden.

Although your plans for indoor catnip may center on the family cat, remember that the plant will be an aromatic addition to your plant collection. Catnip, as nice as it is, also smells like skunk to some people.

Harvesting Catnip

Harvest leaves when the plant reaches eight inches. You can take leaves throughout the summer and dry them in the oven or a dehydrator. Pinch back flowers as they appear to stimulate leaf growth. Never take more than half the plant in a single cutting. In fall, cut stems, tie small bunches with a rubber band, and hang them upside down to dry in a dark spot that gets plenty of air flow.

Harvesting Note: Wait to harvest catnip until late morning after the dew has evaporated.

Keep dried catnip in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot until you're ready to use it.

Free Catnip Mouse Pattern

For instructions and a pattern for making a cloth catnip mouse, visit: Catnip Mouse Pattern. You don't have to be a seamstress to make this little mouse, and your cat will give you points for at least trying. All you'll need is a scrap of fabric, some dried catnip, and a needle and thread. All told, it will probably take less than fifteen minutes start to finish.

Cats aren't the only critters affected by catnip. There's evidence that catnip repels fleas and termites. For more information on how catnip oil may help in the fight against termites visit my post: Catnip and Termites