Seed Treatment (Scarification & Cold Stratification Recommended)
- Scarification:
- Lightly rub seeds with sandpaper or nick the seed coat with a knife.
- Alternatively, soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing.
- Cold Stratification:
- Place seeds in a moist paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 7–14 days.
Planting Instructions
- Sowing Time:
- Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Outdoors: Direct sow in spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in late fall for natural stratification.
- Soil Requirements:
- Prefers well-draining, light soil—loamy or sandy is ideal.
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic).
- Light Requirements:
- Needs full sun for best growth and essential oil production.
- Sowing Instructions:
- Sow seeds ⅛ inch (3 mm) deep.
- Lightly cover with soil and firm gently.
- Watering:
- Keep soil consistently moist until germination.
- Once established, catnip is drought-tolerant and requires only occasional watering.
- Germination Time:
- Germinates in 7–14 days under optimal conditions (65–70°F / 18–21°C).
- Spacing:
- Thin or transplant seedlings 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart.
Growing Tips:
- Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
- Deadhead flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding.
- Loved by cats and bees alike, catnip is also useful as a mild herbal tea and natural pest repellent.
? Happy planting — and get ready to delight your cats! ??