Catnip is a short-lived herbaceous plant well known for its stimulating effect on cats, who may enjoy sniffing, rubbing against and playing with the plant. It also attracts bees, making it a useful addition to the garden.

Common behaviours around catnip include:

• Rubbing against the plant
• Licking or chewing the leaves
• Making excited vocalisations
• Climbing and jumping on objects
• Running and chasing real or imaginary objects

Catnip is a versatile plant and is commonly used in pet toys to encourage activity and exercise. It can also be useful when helping pets become accustomed to a new environment.

How to Grow

• Choose a planting area with soil rich in organic matter. Well-drained, sandy soil is ideal.
• Loosen the soil to a depth of 20–30 cm. If desired, mix approximately 150 g of well-rotted manure or compost per m² into the soil about one week before sowing or transplanting.
• Water once a day without waterlogging the soil, preferably early in the morning or late afternoon.
• Catnip can also be grown in pots indoors.

Growing Tips

Catnip prefers well-drained, sandy soil and full sun. Prune the plant well after flowering to encourage healthy growth.

• Germination: 15–30 days
• Planting Season: All year round, except during periods of frost
• Seeds per Gram: Approximately 1,900–2,000
• Quantity: 500 seeds