Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a hardy perennial herb that is well-known for its intoxicating effects on cats. However, this aromatic plant also offers medicinal and ornamental value, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for catnip, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and common issues.
What is Catnip?
Catnip belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is now widely grown across North America. Catnip produces soft, gray-green leaves and small clusters of white or pale purple flowers. The plant contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which triggers euphoria in cats and has calming effects on humans when used in teas or herbal remedies.
How to Grow Catnip
Choosing the Right Location
Catnip thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile choice for different garden conditions. Ideally, select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure strong growth and abundant foliage. While catnip is highly adaptable, it performs best in well-draining soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Once established, it exhibits excellent drought resistance, making it a low-maintenance addition to herb gardens, borders, or container plantings.
Soil Requirements
This hardy herb prefers moderately fertile soil with good drainage, typically thriving in sandy or loamy soil types. The optimal pH range for catnip is between 6.1 and 7.8, which allows for healthy nutrient uptake. If your garden soil is heavy or compacted, amending it with organic matter such as compost or aged manure will improve drainage and aeration. While catnip does not require overly rich soil, a light application of organic fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season can encourage lush foliage.
Planting Catnip
Growing from Seeds
Starting catnip from seeds requires some patience, as germination can be slow. Begin by sowing seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a light seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Since catnip seeds require light for germination, press them gently into the soil without burying them too deeply. Maintaining a temperature of 65–70°F (18–21°C) will encourage successful sprouting. Once seedlings have developed strong roots and at least two or three sets of leaves, they can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before being transplanted into the garden.
Growing from Cuttings
Propagating catnip from cuttings is an efficient way to produce new plants quickly. Select healthy stems that are 4–6 inches long, making clean cuts with sharp scissors or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to prevent rot and either place the cuttings in a glass of water or plant them directly into moist soil. If using water, change it every few days to keep it fresh. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Within a couple of weeks, they will develop roots, at which point they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Growing from Transplants
For an easier and faster option, gardeners can purchase young catnip plants from a nursery. Wait until after the last frost before planting them outdoors to prevent cold damage. Space each plant 18–24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and to prevent overcrowding. After transplanting, water the plants thoroughly to help them establish strong root systems. Once settled, catnip requires minimal care, thriving in well-drained soil with occasional watering during dry periods.
Caring for Catnip Plants
Watering Needs
Catnip is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is essential during prolonged dry spells to maintain healthy growth. The best practice is to water deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, allowing moisture to reach the plant’s roots. However, avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. In particularly hot or arid climates, applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
Fertilization
Catnip is a hardy plant that does not require heavy fertilization. However, providing a boost of nutrients at the beginning of the growing season can encourage vigorous growth. Applying a balanced organic fertilizer or incorporating compost into the soil in early spring will support healthy foliage without over-stimulating growth. Be cautious with high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause catnip to become overly leggy, reducing the concentration of essential oils that give the plant its signature scent and medicinal properties. If additional feeding is needed, a light application of compost tea or diluted fish emulsion mid-season can provide a gentle nutrient boost.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning is key to keeping catnip plants compact and preventing them from becoming too woody or sprawling. Trimming the plant periodically encourages fresh, bushy growth and helps maintain an attractive shape. Deadheading spent flowers not only promotes continuous blooming but also prevents excessive self-seeding, which can lead to catnip spreading aggressively in the garden. After the flowering season, cutting back the plant by about one-third helps rejuvenate growth and extend its lifespan. In colder climates, pruning catnip down to a few inches above the soil in late fall can protect the plant and encourage healthy regrowth in spring.
Pest and Disease Control
Catnip is naturally resistant to many common garden pests, but aphids and spider mites can occasionally become a problem, especially in dry conditions. If infestations occur, spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control pests without harming beneficial insects. Additionally, strong water sprays can be used to dislodge small infestations. While catnip is generally disease-resistant, it can develop fungal issues such as powdery mildew or root rot if exposed to excessive moisture or poor air circulation. To prevent fungal infections, space plants adequately, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper drainage. If signs of fungal disease appear, removing affected leaves and applying an organic fungicide can help manage the issue.
Harvesting and Storing Catnip
When to Harvest
The best time to harvest catnip is just before it begins to bloom, as this is when the plant contains the highest concentration of essential oils. Typically, this occurs in mid to late summer, depending on the growing conditions. At this stage, the leaves are most aromatic, making them ideal for both medicinal and feline use. While catnip can be harvested throughout the growing season, cutting it before flowering ensures the strongest potency and encourages the plant to produce new growth.
How to Harvest
For the best quality harvest, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut stems just above a leaf node. This encourages the plant to regrow and remain productive throughout the season. The ideal time to harvest is in the morning, shortly after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day, as this helps preserve the plant’s essential oils. Avoid harvesting during wet or humid conditions, as excess moisture can slow the drying process and increase the risk of mold. If harvesting for fresh use, catnip can be used immediately in teas, infused oils, or as a treat for cats.
Drying and Storing
To dry catnip, gather harvested stems into small bundles and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight. Proper air circulation is crucial to prevent mold and ensure even drying. If preferred, catnip leaves and flowers can also be dried on a screen or a drying rack in a shaded, warm area. The drying process typically takes about one to two weeks, depending on humidity levels.
Once completely dry, strip the leaves and flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable bag, in a cool, dark place. Properly stored dried catnip retains its potency for up to a year, making it a convenient option for year-round use. To test for freshness, crush a small amount between your fingers—if the scent remains strong and aromatic, the catnip is still potent.
Uses of Catnip
For Cats
Catnip is best known for its stimulating effects on cats, thanks to the compound nepetalactone, which triggers a temporary sense of euphoria in felines. Fresh or dried catnip can be sprinkled on scratching posts, bedding, or directly on the floor to encourage play and exercise. Many pet owners use catnip to entertain their cats, reduce boredom, and provide a natural form of enrichment.
Catnip-infused toys, scratchers, and sprays are also popular ways to engage cats. These products help redirect scratching behavior away from furniture while providing mental and physical stimulation. For anxious or stressed cats, catnip can have a calming effect, helping them relax in new or unfamiliar environments. However, not all cats respond to catnip, as sensitivity to its effects is inherited—approximately 30% of cats do not react to it at all.
For Humans
Beyond its appeal to cats, catnip has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. One of its most common applications is as a herbal tea, which is believed to promote relaxation and relieve mild digestive discomfort. Catnip tea has mild sedative properties, making it a popular natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is often consumed before bedtime to encourage restful sleep.
Additionally, catnip has been used to soothe minor ailments such as headaches, colds, and menstrual cramps. Some herbalists use catnip as a gentle remedy for nervousness and tension, either in tincture form or as an ingredient in herbal blends. While catnip is generally safe for human consumption, it should be used in moderation, as excessive amounts can lead to mild dizziness or drowsiness.
Common Issues When Growing Catnip
Leggy Growth
Catnip plants can become tall and spindly if they do not receive enough sunlight or if they are not pruned regularly. When grown in partial shade, catnip tends to stretch toward the light, leading to weak stems and sparse foliage. To prevent legginess, ensure the plant gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Regular pruning is also essential—trimming back the stems encourages bushier, more compact growth. Cutting the plant back by one-third after flowering can further promote fresh, dense foliage.
Overwatering Problems
Although catnip is drought-tolerant, it is sensitive to excessive moisture. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to yellowing leaves, wilting, and even root rot. If the soil remains soggy for extended periods, the roots may suffocate and decay. To avoid these issues, plant catnip in well-draining soil and water only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Raised beds or containers with drainage holes can also help prevent water buildup. If signs of overwatering appear, reduce watering frequency and improve air circulation around the plant.
Self-Seeding
Catnip is a vigorous self-seeder, meaning it can spread quickly and take over garden spaces if not managed properly. Once the flowers mature and go to seed, they can disperse and germinate in unwanted areas. To control its spread, deadhead spent flowers before they develop seeds. This not only prevents excessive self-seeding but also encourages the plant to produce more blooms. If catnip starts spreading aggressively, unwanted seedlings can be pulled up or transplanted to a more controlled area. Growing catnip in containers is another effective way to prevent it from overtaking a garden bed.
Conclusion
Catnip is an easy-to-grow herb that offers benefits for both cats and humans. By providing the right growing conditions, proper care, and timely harvesting, you can enjoy a healthy and productive catnip plant year after year. Whether you grow it for your feline friend, for its medicinal properties, or as a pollinator-friendly garden plant, catnip is a valuable addition to any herb garden.
