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How to Grow Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Ready to grow Catnip?

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

🌱 Seed Starting Trays 🪴 Seed Starting Mix 💡 Grow Lights 🌡️ Heat Mat 🪵 Raised Garden Bed 🌍 Vegetable Garden Soil 🛠️ Hand Trowel Set 🚿 Watering Can

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Nepeta cataria
Category herb
Days to Maturity 90 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun to Partial Shade

💧

Water

Low (less than 1 inch/week)

↔️

Spacing

18" apart

🌱

Depth

0.125" deep

📏

Height

18-36"

🌱

Germination

7-14 days

Ready to Grow Catnip?

Find quality seeds from trusted suppliers.

🛒 Buy on Amazon 🌿 True Leaf Market

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🤝 Good Companions

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Catnip Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Catnip Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant 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.

How long does Catnip take to grow? +

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

Should I start Catnip indoors or direct sow? +

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.

How much sun does Catnip need? +

Catnip requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Catnip? +

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

How much water does Catnip need? +

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

About Catnip

Perennial herb beloved by cats and a powerful insect repellent. Deters aphids, flea beetles, and squash bugs. Mild minty flavor for human teas.

Expect your Catnip to be ready for harvest in approximately 90 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.