Catmint

Water regularly and fertilize when 6" tall. To keep plants tidy and to increase leaf production, pinch out developing flower buds.

For strong plants, either start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost, or sow outdoors in late summer/early fall and provide winter protection where necessary.

By our calculations*, you should look at sowing Catmint about 8 days before your last frost date .

Prune often to encourage a bushy habit. The flower buds as well as leaves and stems can be dried or used fresh. Cut shoot tips with a few leaves, To dry, hang stems in a dry, dark, well-ventilated area. Store in an airtight container.

These plants have been known to grow well alongside Catmint so consider planting:

These plants will not grow well with Catmint so avoid planting these within close proximity:

These problems, diseases and pests are known to affect Catmint plants:

In 2001 Iowa State University did a study comparing DEET to catnip for repelling mosquitoes. They found that catnip was more effective then DEET.² Previous research had shown catnip to also repel cockroaches.²

Catnip is aphrodisiac for cats. About 1 out of 10 cats do not respond to it. Cats only need to smell catnip for it to have an effect, but most cats will chew on it to release more scent.¹

Catnip has been used historically to treat scarlet fever, as well as headaches and other ailments.¹² Before the use of tea from China, our English peasantry were in the habit of brewing Catmint Tea, which they said was quite as pleasant and a good deal more wholesome.

For those who practice magic Catnip is associated with love.It is also said to attract good luck when grown. ¹

Catmint, Catnip, Field Balm, Catswort, catnep,

Nepeta cataria L.

Our when to plant Catmint estimates are relative to your last frost date. Enter your frost dates and we'll calculate your sowing and planting dates for you!

¹ Asian Herbs

² Iowa State University