Nepeta cataria

Sowing and growing guidance

Start Nepeta cataria seeds indoors before the last frost, then transplant or direct sow once frost has passed; in mild, frost-free climates, autumn sowing is possible. Give plants full sun to light shade and well-drained, moderately fertile to lean soil. Sow thinly, cover very lightly, and keep evenly moist until germination. Allow room for bushy, medium-tall clumps (follow packet guidance for final spacing). Water to establish, then water sparingly; avoid overfeeding, which can make growth lax. Pinch young plants to encourage branching, and trim after flowering to keep plants compact and to reduce self-seeding. Mulch lightly in hotter, drier sites to conserve moisture while keeping crowns dry.

• Container suitable: choose a free-draining mix and a pot with drainage holes.
• Pollinator friendly: flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects.
• Edible: leaves can be used to flavour drinks or simple dishes.
• Ornamental: soft grey-green foliage and pale blooms provide a relaxed accent.

How do I grow Nepeta cataria from seed?

Sow Nepeta cataria seeds in a fine, well-drained seed-starting mix, either indoors before the last frost or outdoors once the soil is workable. Press seeds onto the surface or barely cover, as light aids germination. Keep evenly moist, not waterlogged, and provide bright light and good air circulation. Typical germination occurs in 1–3 weeks in warm conditions. Thin or prick out promptly to avoid crowding. Seedlings prefer lean conditions, so avoid rich fertiliser early on; stronger light and slight dryness encourage sturdy growth.

When should I sow catnip seeds after frost?

Direct-sow catnip seeds after the last frost when nights are mild and the soil has warmed and is easy to work. In many locations this coincides with spring (Northern Hemisphere) / autumn (Southern Hemisphere). For a head start, begin indoors before the last frost and transplant once conditions are settled. In mild, frost-free climates, autumn sowing is also possible so plants can establish over the cool season. Protect very young plants from late cold snaps with a cloche or light cover if needed.

What are the ideal catnip growing conditions?

Catnip thrives in full sun to light shade with well-drained soil that is moderately fertile to lean; overly rich ground leads to floppy growth. Water to establish, then allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings—plants are fairly drought tolerant once settled. Good airflow helps prevent mildew. Avoid heavy, soggy sites. In these conditions, catnip produces abundant blooms that are attractive to a wide range of pollinators and other beneficial insects.

What is the best soil for catnip in pots?

Use a free-draining, low-to-moderate fertility potting mix, such as a peat-free compost blended with coarse grit, perlite, or sharp sand to improve aeration. Choose a container with ample drainage holes and avoid saucers that hold standing water. Water thoroughly, then let the top of the mix dry slightly before watering again. Feed sparingly—an occasional light, balanced feed or a thin top-dress of compost in the growing season is sufficient, as rich mixes encourage lush but weak, leggy growth.

Is catnip perennial or annual, and how should I space plants in garden beds?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is typically a hardy perennial, forming medium-tall, bushy clumps that regrow each year; plants may die back in freezing weather and rebound in spring. In very severe winters it may be short-lived. Allow generous spacing so each plant can form a well-ventilated clump—avoid crowding to limit mildew and floppiness, and follow packet guidance for your strain. Catnip can self-seed if flowers are left to mature; deadhead spent spikes if you wish to limit volunteers.

How do I transplant catnip seedlings, prune plants, and harvest leaves for drying?

Harden off seedlings gradually, then transplant at the same depth into well-drained soil, watering in to settle roots. Pinch growing tips early to promote branching, and trim lightly through the season to keep plants compact. After the first flush of bloom, a modest cut-back encourages fresh growth and a second flowering. For drying, harvest healthy leaves and tender stems on a dry day, ideally before peak flowering. Dry in a warm, shaded, airy place, then store in an airtight container away from light.

This sitewide growing guidance is compiled from standard horticultural references and producer data. Conditions vary by microclimate, soil structure, drainage, and exposure, so timings and techniques may need adjustment for local weather patterns, from after last frost to periods when soil is workable. Product pages include specific instructions for sowing depth, spacing, and any pre-treatment or cultivation notes for the listed item.

How to grow catnip from seed

Known commonly as catnip, Nepeta cataria seeds are straightforward to start when timing and soil conditions are right. Sow outdoors after the last frost when soil is workable, or start indoors and transplant once seedlings are sturdy. Press seeds lightly onto a fine, moist surface; minimal covering supports light-aided germination. Keep evenly moist, not waterlogged, until sprouts appear in 7–14 days. Provide full sun in cooler summers or light shade where heat is intense, and choose well-drained soil. Space plants 30–45 cm apart to encourage airflow and bushy growth. Pinch young tips to promote branching, and deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering window; in mild climates autumn sowing may be possible. Allow a few flower heads to mature if self-seeding is desired, or tidy promptly to limit spread. Established plants are tolerant of modest fertility and intermittent dryness once rooted. For a continuous, aromatic display that attracts visiting pollinators, refresh older clumps every few seasons.