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.
Try to aim for a seed spacing of at least 0.98 inches (2.5 cm) and sow at a depth of around 0.25 inches (0.64 cm). Soil temperature should be kept higher than 16°C / 61°F to ensure good germination.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 estimates for how long Catmint takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.
Average 9 days | Min 1 days | Max 23 days (46)
Average days | Min days | Max days (0)
Average 67 days | Min 67 days | Max 67 days (2)
Our when to plant Catmint estimates are relative to your last frost date.
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
Catnip
Nepeta cataria L.