Catnip is a perennial herb in the mint family that is native to Europe and Asia. It is best known for its effect on cats, which are attracted to its scent and often become playful and energetic when they encounter it.
There are many different types and varieties of catnip plants, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types of catnip include:
Catnip (Nepeta cataria): This is the most common type of catnip, and it is the one that is most attractive to cats. It is a herbaceous plant with gray-green leaves and white flowers.
Lemon catnip (Nepeta citriodora): This type of catnip has a lemon-like scent, and it is less attractive to cats than the common catnip. However, it is still a popular herb to grow in gardens due to its pleasant scent and its ability to attract butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Kittenmint (Nepeta mussinii): This type of catnip is less potent than the common catnip, but it is still attractive to cats. It is a low-growing plant with lavender flowers.
Siberian catmint (Nepeta sibirica): This type of catnip is native to Siberia, and it is resistant to cold weather. It is a tall-growing plant with purple flowers.
Giant catnip (Nepeta gigantea): This type of catnip is the largest of the catnip plants, and it can grow up to 6 feet tall. It has white flowers and is less attractive to cats than the common catnip.
When choosing a type of catnip to grow, it is important to consider the climate in your area. Some types of catnip are more cold-hardy than others. It is also important to consider the amount of space you have available. Some types of catnip can grow very tall, while others are more compact.
How to Grow Catnip
Catnip is a relatively easy plant to grow. It can be grown from seed or from cuttings. If you are growing from seed, sow the seeds in the spring after the last frost. If you are growing from cuttings, take cuttings from healthy plants in the spring or summer.
Catnip prefers full sun or partial shade. It also prefers well-drained soil. Plant catnip in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Water catnip regularly, especially during hot weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilize catnip with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
How to Harvest Catnip
Catnip can be harvested at any time during the growing season. However, the most potent catnip is harvested when the flowers are in bloom.
To harvest catnip, cut the stems about 6 inches from the ground. Tie the stems together in bunches and hang them upside down to dry in a dark, well-ventilated area.
Once the catnip is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
How to Use Catnip
Catnip can be used in a variety of ways. It can be given to cats as a toy or as a treat. It can also be used to make tea, tinctures, and capsules.
Catnip for Cats
Catnip is a safe and natural way to entertain and stimulate cats. It can be given to cats in a variety of ways, including:
Catnip toys: Catnip toys are a great way to keep cats entertained. There are a variety of catnip toys available, including balls, mice, and stuffed animals.
Loose catnip: Loose catnip can be sprinkled on the floor or on a scratching post to encourage cats to play and scratch.
Catnip tea: Catnip tea can be given to cats to drink or it can be rubbed on their fur. Catnip tea is calming and can help to reduce anxiety in cats.
Catnip for Humans
Catnip is also safe for humans to consume. It has a mild, minty flavor and can be used to make tea, tinctures, and capsules.
Catnip tea is a calming and relaxing drink. It can also help to reduce anxiety and insomnia.
