All About Growing Catnip
What is Catnip?
Catnip, or catmint, is a plant that cats love. It has a strong minty scent that cats find irresistible. Catnip is also edible for humans and can be used to flavor dishes or make tea.
Growing Catnip
Catnip is easy to grow. It prefers sunny spots with well-drained soil. You can grow catnip from seed or buy plants at a nursery or garden center.
Where to Grow Catnip
Catnip can be grown in a garden bed, raised bed, or pot. It is important to choose a location with well-drained soil. Catnip is drought-tolerant, but it will need to be watered regularly during dry spells.
How to Plant Catnip
Plant catnip in the spring or fall. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the catnip plant in the hole and fill it with soil. Water the plant well.
How to Care for Catnip
Catnip is a low-maintenance plant. It does not need to be fertilized regularly. However, you should cut back the stems after the flowers have finished blooming. This will encourage new growth and may produce a second flush of flowers.
How to Propagate Catnip
Catnip can be propagated by seed or division. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in a pot of moist seed compost. To propagate by division, divide established clumps of catnip in the fall or early spring.
Pests and Diseases
Catnip is generally trouble-free from pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew in dry summers. Powdery mildew can be managed by watering the plant regularly and avoiding overhead watering.
Buying Catnip
Catnip plants and seeds can be purchased at nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. When buying catnip, be sure to check the plants for signs of damage or disease.
