did you know?

In England, catnip tea was a popular drink before the arrival of Chinese teas. Nepetalactone, the major component of the oil of plants, is structurally similar to compounds found in valerian and is said to have a similarly sedative effect on both humans and felines. Cats often roll in beds of the herb to release its oil.

general maintenance:

Pinch throughout summer to harvest and to prevent plants from becoming leggy.

pests/diseases:

Leaf spot may occur.

controls:

For leaf spot, remove affected plants and reduce soil moisture.

how to sow/plant:

Start with new plants, cuttings, or divisions in summer, planted 18 inches apart, or sow indoors, 3–4 weeks before last frost, 1/4 inch deep. When danger of frost has passed, transplant or direct sow, 6 inches apart. Growing from seed results in variability; select seedlings with preferred flavor or fragrance.

water and fertilize:

Allow soil to dry between watering; don't overwater. Additional fertilizer is not recommended.

garden hint:

Although young catnip plants do not seem to be as attractive to cats, larger plants need to be fenced off from cats that may knock them down and roll on them.

features:

• Disease Resistant
• Drought Tolerant
• Fragrant
• Heirloom

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (use dried leaves and flowers for a calming tea)
• Everlasting (>)
• Medicinal

combine with:

other medicinal herbs, such as chamomile, comfrey, coneflower, horehound, and mullein.