How to Grow Catnip

Known in antiquity as “catswort.” Bees are highly attracted to its flowers, but the flea beetle is deterred by it. The universal appeal of this species to cats is underscored by the fact that the herb’s common name in every Western language contains some variation of the word “cat.” Continue reading below for some pro tips on how to grow catnip from seed.

Latin
Nepeta cataria
Family: Lamiaceae

Difficulty
Easy

Season & Zone
Season: Warm season
Exposure: Full sun
Zone: Hardy to Zone 4

Timing
Sow seeds indoors in late winter, and transplant or direct sow in 2-6 weeks after the last frost date. Catnip can also be direct sown in the fall where it is to grow. Bottom heat will speed germination. Ideal temperature for germination: 21-27°C (70-80°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-20 days.

Starting
Sow on the soil surface or barely covered with perlite. Thin plants or transplant to 30cm (12″) apart. Keep seedlings well protected from cats.

Growing
Catnip does very well in containers, raised beds, or borders in full sun to partial shade. The main challenge to growing it is protecting it from cats. After the main bloom, plants should be cut back hard to encourage a second bloom and tidy shape.

Harvest
To save the summer catmint bounty, harvest when fully grown, and keep the plant picked regularly.

Seed Info
Usual seed life: 5 years.

Companion Planting
Attracts pollinators (and cats), but repels aphids, flea beetles, Japanese beetles, ants, weevils, and squash bugs.