Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a hardy perennial herb from the mint family, celebrated for its aromatic foliage and delicate white or pale purple flowers. Catnip is famous for its effect on cats, but it’s also a gentle, calming herb for humans and a magnet for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Adaptable and easy to grow, catnip thrives in Canadian gardens as a ground cover, border plant, or container herb.

Key Features of Catnip Seeds

• Heirloom, open-pollinated seeds
• Hardy perennial in zones 3–9; grown as an annual in colder regions
• Upright growth habit, reaching 60–90 cm (2–3 feet) tall
• Soft, grey-green leaves with serrated edges and tall flower spikes
• Highly aromatic foliage—irresistible to cats and attractive to pollinators
• Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant
• Edible leaves for herbal teas and culinary uses
• Natural insect repellent for aphids, squash bugs, and mosquitoes

Planting and Growing Catnip

• Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last spring frost or direct sow outdoors in spring
• Plant seeds 0.5 cm (¼ inch) deep; cover lightly with soil
• Space plants 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart for healthy growth
• Prefers full sun and rich, moist, sandy soil
• Germination in 7–21 days; maturity in 75–100 days
• Catnip will self-sow and spread once established

Care Tips

• Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Prune lightly to encourage bushy growth
• Protect young plants from cats until well-rooted

Harvesting & Storing

• Harvest leaves before flowering for highest potency
• Use fresh or dried leaves for teas, seasoning, or cat treats
• Store dried leaves in an airtight container away from light

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does catnip need full sun? Yes—at least 6 hours daily for best growth.
• When should I plant catnip seeds? Sow indoors before last frost or direct sow in spring.
• Can I grow catnip in containers? Yes—choose a sunny spot and use well-drained soil.