
Dharaseeds
Catnip Seeds - Lemon
Estimated Free Delivery between April 16 and April 19.
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The Lemon Catnip variety offers all the beloved qualities of traditional catnip with a refreshing citrus twist. Known for its invigorating aroma and flavor, this variety adds a zesty note to both feline playtime and herbal remedies. With its vibrant green leaves and lemon-scented fragrance, Lemon Catnip is a unique addition to any herb or pet-friendly garden. Not only does it attract cats with its nepetalactone content, but its crisp, refreshing scent also makes it a favorite for gardeners who love multi-purpose herbs.
Key Benefits
- Cat Attraction: Like standard catnip, this variety contains nepetalactone, which induces playful behavior and excitement in cats.
- Lemon-Scented: Offers a fresh citrus fragrance that adds a unique twist to traditional catnip’s minty aroma.
- Herbal Uses: Ideal for making soothing teas and herbal infusions with a bright lemon flavor.
- Easy to Grow: Thrives in various soil types and requires minimal care, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants with pale green, aromatic leaves and spikes of lavender to white flowers.
- Height: Typically grows between 18–24 inches tall.
- Flavor and Aroma: A distinctive lemon scent mixed with the traditional minty undertones of catnip.
- Hardiness: Thrives in USDA zones 3–9, with good cold tolerance.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Outdoors: Sow seeds in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for a fall harvest.
- Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart for best growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate partial shade.
Care Instructions
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid over-watering. Once established, Lemon Catnip is relatively drought-tolerant.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and during the growing season if needed.
- Pruning: Trim dead or spent flowers regularly to maintain plant health and encourage new growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Lemon Catnip is generally resistant to pests but may occasionally attract aphids. Use natural pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap, if necessary.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Lemon Catnip is ready to harvest in approximately 75–85 days after planting.
- Method: Harvest when the plant has reached a height of 12–18 inches. Snip the stems just above the base to encourage regrowth.
- Best Time: The best time to harvest is early in the morning when the plant’s essential oils are most concentrated.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Long-Term: For long-term storage, dry the leaves in a cool, dark place. Once dried, store them in airtight containers away from light for up to 6 months.
Culinary and Practical Uses
- For Cats: Use dried or fresh Lemon Catnip leaves to stuff toys or sprinkle around your home for feline playtime.
- Herbal Tea: Brew dried leaves into a refreshing, calming tea with a distinct lemon flavor.
- Aromatherapy: The lemony fragrance can be used to refresh indoor spaces or in homemade sachets.
- Medicinal Uses: In addition to its calming effects on cats, Lemon Catnip has mild sedative properties for humans and can be used to relieve stress and aid digestion.
Conclusion
Lemon Catnip brings a refreshing twist to the classic catnip experience, offering all the benefits your feline friends love while providing a citrusy aroma that adds a unique element to your herb garden. Whether for stimulating your cats, brewing relaxing teas, or simply enjoying its pleasant fragrance, this premium organic variety is sure to be a hit in any garden. Grow your own Lemon Catnip from seed for a fun, fragrant, and versatile addition to your home.