How To Grow Catnip From Seed
Catnip is quite simple to grow. Catnip plants do well in full sun or partial shade. They grow very aggressively, and will thrive in mostly all soil types. Below are some easy to follow instructions which will help you successfully grow Catnip plants from seed in your garden.
- Plant Your Seeds. The seeds should be sown in early spring, as soon as the last frost date in your area has passed. Sow Catnip seeds in rows.
- Thin Plants. When plants have reached 5" tall; thin to the healthiest plant every 18-24 inches.
- Water Your Catnip Properly. Keep the soil moist while your seedlings are germinating. Once the plants have established themselves (when the second set of leaves have formed), water your Catnip plants daily, being careful not to over-water. If the top 1/2 inch of the soil surrounding your plant is moist you have watered the plants sufficiently.
- Harvest. You may begin harvesting your Catnip as soon as flowers begin to form on the plant. Catnip can be used and enjoyed either fresh off the plant, or after drying. To dry the Catnip leaves, you may wish to use one of the following methods:
- Cut individual leaves from your plant. Spread your leaves out in a cool and well ventilated area, and allow them to dry.
- Cut off an entire branch or multiple branches. Hang the branches upside down in a cool, well ventilated area. As the leaves dry out, they will begin to fall to the ground. A paper bag placed below will allow you to easily collect dried leaves.
Caution
- Be careful not to overcrowd Catnip plants with other plants in your garden, as they grow very aggressively.
- Beware of bees. Bees are fond of catnip.