Catnip
$2.99
Catnip is not just for cats! Tall pink and white flower spikes are great in fresh and dried arrangements. Use the leaves in salads, sauces, teas, and soups – and of course fresh or dried for the cats! Catnip seeds are a good choice for a bee attractor that works well in containers on cat-free balconies. Protect seedlings from cats.
6 in stock
Product Description
The plant contains the organic compound Nepetalactone, which was first isolated in 1941, and acts as a cat attractant. And it causes these amusing responses in nearly all felines, including leopards, cougars, and lynxes. Among domestic cats, it is estimated that around 33% do not not respond to catnip in any noticeable way. This is thought to be an hereditary trait.
Happily for gardeners, the plant also contains the compound Iridodial, which attracts lacewings, one of the top beneficial predatory insects. Extracts of Nepetalactone can also be refined to form strong fly and mosquito repellents. Nepetalactone is best extracted through steam distillation.
Difficulty:
Easy
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 is 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 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.
Days to Maturity: 80 days
Planting Depth: 1/4″
Distance Apart: 6″ – 10″
Amount: 400mg
