What To Know
- Growing your own catnip is not only rewarding, but it’s also a fun and easy way to provide your cat with a natural, safe, and exciting source of entertainment.
- If you’re planting catnip directly in your garden, simply scatter the seeds over the prepared soil and lightly rake them in.
- Spread the catnip stems on a baking sheet and dry them in a low oven (around 150 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few hours.
Is your feline friend a bit of a couch potato? Does the sound of a crinkly toy barely register? Then it’s time to introduce them to the magical world of catnip! Growing your own catnip is not only rewarding, but it’s also a fun and easy way to provide your cat with a natural, safe, and exciting source of entertainment.
Why Grow Catnip?
Catnip, scientifically known as *Nepeta cataria*, is a member of the mint family and is renowned for its intoxicating effect on cats. The plant contains an essential oil called nepetalactone, which triggers a euphoric response in most felines. This response can manifest in a variety of ways, from playful rolling and rubbing to energetic bursts of activity, often accompanied by hilarious meows and purrs.
Growing your own catnip offers several benefits:
- Cost-effective: Buying pre-packaged catnip can get expensive, especially if your cat is a frequent user. Growing your own provides a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative.
- Freshness: Fresh catnip is far more potent than dried catnip, offering a more intense and enjoyable experience for your cat.
- Control: You can choose organic seeds and avoid any harmful pesticides or chemicals, ensuring your cat’s safety.
- Fun and rewarding: Growing catnip is a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your feline friend. It’s a great way to bond with your cat and watch them enjoy something you’ve grown yourself.
Choosing the Right Catnip
While *Nepeta cataria* is the most common type of catnip, there are other varieties that can also induce the same euphoric response in cats. Some popular choices include:
- Nepeta faassenii: This variety is known for its compact size and lovely blue flowers, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or containers.
- Nepeta grandiflora: This variety boasts larger, more vibrant flowers and a stronger scent, making it particularly appealing to cats.
- Nepeta mussinii: This variety is a low-growing, spreading plant that’s perfect for ground cover or edging.
When selecting catnip seeds or plants, ensure they are specifically labeled as “catnip” or *Nepeta cataria*. Some other plants in the mint family may be visually similar but lack the nepetalactone that makes catnip so appealing to cats.
Planting Catnip: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Timing is Key: Catnip is a hardy plant that thrives in warm weather. The best time to plant catnip is in the spring after the last frost has passed. You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for an earlier harvest.
2. Location, Location, Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Catnip prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
3. Seed Starting: If you’re starting your catnip from seed, sow them about 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and within a few weeks, your catnip seedlings should emerge.
4. Transplanting: Once your seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into your garden. Space them about 12-18 inches apart, leaving room for them to grow.
5. Direct Sowing: If you’re planting catnip directly in your garden, simply scatter the seeds over the prepared soil and lightly rake them in. Water thoroughly.
6. Watering and Care: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Once established, catnip is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells.
7. Harvesting: Catnip can be harvested throughout the growing season. Cut the stems just above a set of leaves to encourage new growth. For the strongest effect, harvest the flowering tops.
Drying and Storing Catnip
Once you’ve harvested your catnip, you can dry it to preserve its potency and enjoyment for your cat. Here’s how:
- Air Drying: Hang the stems upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area. It may take a few weeks for the catnip to dry completely.
- Oven Drying: Spread the catnip stems on a baking sheet and dry them in a low oven (around 150 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few hours. Check frequently to prevent burning.
Once the catnip is completely dry, you can crush it into a powder or store it whole for later use. Store dried catnip in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
A Garden of Delights: Beyond the Basics
Here are some additional tips to enhance your catnip growing experience:
- Companion Planting: Catnip is a great companion plant for tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetables as it repels pests like aphids and squash bugs.
- Pest Control: While catnip is generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. If you notice an infestation, use a natural insecticide like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Pruning: Regular pruning can encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems to promote branching.
- Winter Protection: Catnip is a perennial plant, meaning it will come back year after year. In colder climates, it’s a good idea to mulch around the base of the plant in the fall to protect it from frost.
A Catnip Paradise for Your Feline Friend
By following these simple tips, you can easily cultivate a thriving catnip garden that will bring endless joy to your cat. Imagine the playful antics, the adorable meows, and the blissful purrs that will fill your home with a delightful feline symphony!
What You Need to Learn
Q: How often should I give my cat catnip?
A: While catnip is generally safe for cats, it’s best to offer it in moderation. Too much catnip can cause an upset stomach or a mild allergic reaction in some cats. A small amount, once or twice a week, is usually sufficient to satisfy their cravings.
Q: Can I grow catnip indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow catnip indoors in a sunny windowsill or under a grow light. Just make sure to choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: What if my cat doesn‘t react to catnip?
A: About 30% of cats are genetically insensitive to nepetalactone. If your cat doesn‘t react to catnip, don’t worry! There are other ways to keep them entertained, such as using cat toys or providing scratching posts.
Q: Can I use catnip for other purposes?
A: Yes! Catnip can also be used as a natural insect repellent and a calming agent for humans. It can also be brewed into a refreshing tea.
