Herb – Catnip

Description

50 Seeds per pack

Catnip Herb (A.K.A. Catmint, Catwort, Field Balm)

Days to Maturity: 75–90 Days

Sun Requirements: Prefers full sun but benefits from partial shade in hotter areas.

Botanical Name: (Nepeta cataria)

Long grown in European gardens and prized in apothecaries for centuries, catnip is best known today for its amusing effect on cats—but its usefulness goes far beyond feline delight. This hardy perennial grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, forming a bushy, spreading clump of gray-green leaves that are softly fuzzy and pleasantly aromatic. The coarsely toothed, ovate leaves give off a mild minty scent when brushed. From late spring to early fall, tall stems produce whorled clusters of tiny white flowers speckled with pink or pale purple, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Its essential oil, nepetalactone, is a powerful natural insect repellent, long used to deter mosquitoes and common garden pests like aphids, flea beetles, and squash bugs. Even rabbits and deer tend to avoid it. Perfect for border plantings or near outdoor seating, it serves both ornamental and practical purposes. A sturdy, low-maintenance grower, catnip flourishes in full sun to part shade, tolerates dry conditions well once established, and can be grown in containers or herb beds.

The flavor is subtly minty with a slightly bitter edge, making it a great addition to herbal teas, particularly evening blends. Catnip has traditionally been used to ease colds, aid digestion, and calm the nerves. When dried, it keeps its aroma for months and can be brewed into soothing teas, added to bath infusions, or even made into homemade hair rinses. In the kitchen, it may be used like other mints to impart a mild herbal character to sauces, jellies, or dressings.

Leaves and flowers dry well and retain much of their potency, making this a practical herb to preserve for year-round use. Its medicinal uses are many, though it should be used with care.

Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, and minerals such as magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, sodium, and sulfur, catnip is a versatile addition to any herb garden.

Warnings and Medical Disclaimer: Only use in small doses and with caution. Avoid if pregnant, nursing, or if you have liver, kidney, or psychiatric disorders. Do not use if taking medications affecting the central nervous system or during heavy menstrual flow. While generally considered safe for children and cats in small amounts, it should be used under adult supervision, especially when consumed as a tea or remedy.

Catnip has a long history of medicinal use, but its effects may vary depending on the individual and preparation. This plant may interact with medications or trigger allergic reactions in some people. Before using catnip or any part of the plant for medicinal purposes, consult a qualified healthcare professional. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. We do not assume responsibility for any adverse effects resulting from its use.

Planting Instructions for Caraway Seeds

When to Plant
Start catnip seeds indoors about 8–10 weeks before your last expected spring frost, or direct sow outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. For fall planting, sow seeds in late summer so they can establish before winter. Germination is slow, so plan ahead.

Seed Preparation
Catnip seeds have a hard outer shell and benefit from stratification. For best results, freeze seeds for 24 hours, then soak them in warm water for 12–24 hours. Sow immediately after soaking for improved germination.

How to Sow
Sow seeds ¼” deep in well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy until germination, which typically occurs in 14–21 days. When growing indoors, use a warm, sunny location or provide supplemental light.

Site Selection
Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While catnip thrives in full sun, it can tolerate partial shade—and in hot climates, a bit of afternoon shade may actually help prevent heat stress and improve overall plant health. Ideal soil pH ranges from 4.9 to 7.5, and sandy or well-drained soil is best.

Spacing & Transplanting
Once seedlings are 3–4″ tall and outdoor temperatures are consistently above 60°F, transplant them into the garden. Space plants 18–24″ apart, as mature catnip can reach 20–40″ wide and tall. Thin direct-sown seedlings to one per 20–24″ for strong growth.

Watering
Water catnip when the top inch of soil feels dry. Young seedlings require consistently moist (but not soggy) soil to establish strong roots. Once established, catnip is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions at all stages to prevent root rot.

Fertilization
Catnip does well in average to slightly poor soil, and fertilization is usually unnecessary. If your soil is very depleted, you may mix in a small amount of compost at planting time. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, and overfeeding as it can lead to excessive leaf growth while diminishing the plant’s flavor, aroma, and essential oil concentration.

Maintenance & Pruning
Regular upkeep helps keep catnip healthy and productive. Pinch back growing tips to promote bushy growth, and trim the plant after its first bloom to encourage a second flush of flowers. Remove spent blossoms to prevent self-seeding, or allow a few to mature if you’d like the plant to naturalize. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor. If cats are especially enthusiastic, protect young plants with chicken wire domes or place bamboo stakes 2–3″ apart to discourage flattening.

Harvesting
Cut catnip stems just above the soil line when the plant is in full bloom—this is when the essential oils are at their peak. While you can pick individual leaves or flowers, harvesting full stems promotes quicker regrowth.

Drying
Gather cut stems into small bundles and secure them with twine or a rubber band. Hang them upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for 1–2 weeks. Alternatively, lay leaves and flowers on a tray in a sunny windowsill for several days until crisp. You can also use a dehydrator set to 100°F (38°C) or an oven at 150°F (66°C) for faster drying.

Preparing Dried Catnip
Once completely dry, strip off the leaves and flowers from the stems. Crumble them into smaller pieces and discard the stems.

Storage
Store dried catnip in an airtight container such as a glass jar or zip-top bag. Keep in a cool, dark place away from light and moisture. For longer shelf life, store the container in the refrigerator or freezer.

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