Dharaseeds
Catnip Seeds (Organic)
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Organic Catnip is a must-have herb for cat owners and garden enthusiasts alike. Known for its ability to stimulate cats with its natural compounds, this organic variety is free from pesticides and chemicals, making it a safe choice for both pets and the environment. Beyond being a favorite for feline play, organic catnip is also valued for its calming effects in humans, making it a versatile addition to any herb garden. Whether you’re cultivating it for your pets or for its soothing medicinal uses, Organic Catnip is an easy-to-grow and rewarding plant.
Key Benefits
- Cat Attraction: Contains nepetalactone, a compound that causes excitement and playfulness in cats.
- Organic and Chemical-Free: Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring a safe and natural product for both pets and gardeners.
- Herbal Uses: Known for its mild sedative properties, it can be used in teas to promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety.
- Easy to Grow: This hardy perennial thrives with minimal maintenance, making it perfect for beginner gardeners.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity in your garden.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Grows bushy with aromatic, soft, green leaves and spikes of small white to purple flowers.
- Height: Typically reaches 18–36 inches in height.
- Flavor and Aroma: Features a distinct minty, herbal aroma that is especially attractive to cats.
- Hardiness: Suited for USDA zones 3–9, it thrives in a variety of climates.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Outdoors: Plant in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for a fall harvest.
- Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost date for an early indoor harvest.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Sunlight: Needs full sun but can tolerate partial shade, particularly in warmer climates.
Care Instructions
- Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, Catnip is relatively drought-tolerant.
- Fertilization: Use organic fertilizers like compost or balanced organic plant food to nourish the soil.
- Pruning: Trim spent flowers and cut back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
- Pest and Disease Control: Catnip is generally pest-resistant but may attract aphids or spider mites. Natural pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, can be used if necessary.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Organic Catnip is ready to harvest in 70–90 days from planting.
- Method: Harvest when the plant has reached at least 12 inches in height. Snip the leaves just above the base of the plant to encourage new growth.
- Best Time: For the highest concentration of essential oils, harvest in the morning when the leaves are fresh and dew-free.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh catnip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Long-Term: Dry the leaves and store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for several months. Dried catnip can retain its potency for 6 months to a year.
Culinary and Practical Uses
- For Cats: Sprinkle dried catnip in your cat’s play area or stuff it into toys to provide hours of fun and stimulation.
- Herbal Tea: Brew the dried leaves into a calming tea for humans, which can aid in sleep and reduce anxiety.
- Aromatherapy: The refreshing aroma of organic catnip can be used to freshen the air in your home.
- Medicinal Uses: Organic Catnip has a long history in herbal medicine for its mild sedative properties and ability to alleviate indigestion, headaches, and stress.
Conclusion
Organic Catnip is a valuable addition to any garden, offering both playful enjoyment for cats and therapeutic benefits for humans. With its easy-to-grow nature, versatility in use, and chemical-free cultivation, this organic variety is perfect for gardeners looking to grow a natural, pet-friendly herb. Whether for your cat’s entertainment or your own relaxation, Organic Catnip seeds offer a rewarding gardening experience.