How to Grow Catnip

Start Catnip seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Catnip typically matures in about 90 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Catnip should be started indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Catnip requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.

Space Catnip plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Catnip has low (less than 1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Catnip is rated easy. Let flower spikes dry completely on the plant. Seeds form in small nutlets inside dried calyxes. Strip dried stems over a bowl, rub between fingers to release seeds, winnow lightly.

Properly dried and stored Catnip seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Catnip is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.