Where Can You Find Catnip? A Look at This Popular Herb’s Natural Habitats and Cultivation

With its minty aroma and intoxicating effect on cats catnip is a unique and fascinating herb. But where exactly can you find this beloved plant growing in the wild or under cultivation? Here’s an overview of where catnip naturally occurs and how it is commonly grown for household use and gardening.

Catnip in the Wild

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family that is native to parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It can be found growing wild in its native habitats including:

• Disturbed areas like roadsides, edges of fields, waste grounds
• Along streams and riverbanks
• On hillsides and mountain slopes

This hardy plant has naturalized across much of North America as well, commonly sprouting up in similar environments Look for catnip growing unrestrained along highways, railroad tracks, parks, and vacant lots It frequently appears in grasslands, meadows, open woodlands, and on the outskirts of urban areas.

Catnip spreads readily and can be considered a weed in some regions. It flourishes in full sun and dry soils but can tolerate partial shade. The plant produces small white flowers from late spring through fall that give way to nutlets dispersed by birds and small mammals. These nutlets allow catnip to spread rapidly and colonize new areas.

Finding Catnip in Nurseries and Gardens

Although catnip grows wild over much of the world the plant is also widely cultivated for use as a garden ornamental, cat treat, and herbal tea. You can easily find live catnip plants for sale at most garden centers and nurseries especially in springtime. Look for young starter plants or seeds.

You may also find catnip growing in household gardens, since it is very easy to grow. Cat owners often grow small patches to entertain their feline friends. The herb’s mosquito-repelling abilities also make it a popular addition alongside patios and porches.

For use in landscaping, catnip works well as a filler around borders and beds of ornamentals. Gardeners also grow it in vegetable gardens to help ward off insect pests. Other great spots for planted catnip include:

• Herb gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Container gardens
• Hanging baskets out of pets’ reach

Best Regions for Growing Catnip

In the garden, catnip thrives in zones 3-9 and does best in zones 4-8. It can tolerate cold winters as far north as Canada and Scandinavia. Catnip also grows well in the cool, moist climates of the Pacific Northwest and Northern Europe.

Throughout the United States, catnip grows readily across most of the northern half from Maine to Washington and south to Virginia, Missouri and Oregon. It does well in the cool high-altitude climates of the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada.

Catnip can struggle with hot, humid summers across the southern U.S. Growers in the South should choose partially shaded spots and provide ample moisture. In tropical zones like Southern Florida and Hawaii, catnip grows best in containers that can be moved into shade and mist sprayed.

Growing Catnip in Pots and Planters

One great way to provide the right conditions for catnip is by growing it in pots and planters. This allows cat owners to place catnip in an ideal spot to rub and nibble. Portable containers also enable moving catnip out of intense sun during hot weather.

Good potting soil mixed with perlite or vermiculite for drainage is ideal for planted catnip. Use containers at least 10 inches wide and deep. For indoor growing, provide at least 6 hours of sunlight from a bright window.

Water container plants regularly but avoid saturated soil that can lead to root rot. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Prune leggy growth to keep potted catnip compact and full.

Caring for Garden Catnip

In the garden, catnip thrives with minimal care. It prefers full sun but also grows successfully in light afternoon shade. Plant catnip in well-draining soil enriched with compost. Space plants 18 inches apart to allow air circulation.

Keep soil moist the first season to establish an extensive root system. Afterward, water garden catnip weekly if rain is lacking. Apply an organic granular fertilizer once in early spring. Prune back flowers after the initial bloom to stimulate regrowth.

Catnip rarely suffers from serious pests or diseases. Watch for aphids, slugs and powdery mildew and treat any issues promptly. In winter, mulch plants in cold zones for insulation or trim back foliage after freezing temps.

Harvesting and Drying Catnip

The leaves of catnip provide the strongest aroma and flavor, making them the primary part harvested. For the best quality, cut leaves just after plants finish flowering. Mid-morning on a dry, sunny day is ideal harvest time.

Cut each plant’s stems about 3-4 inches above soil level using clean shears. Hang upside down in a dark, dry area until the leaves are brittle. Then remove the leaves to store in sealed jars or bags in a cool location away from sunlight.

Well-dried catnip retains its scent and flavor for up to a year. Toss any batches that turn brown or musty. Frozen catnip leaves also stay potent for several months when stored airtight in the freezer.

So for both household and garden use, catnip is readily available at garden retailers or can be easily grown yourself. With proper care, this versatile herb will thrive and spread readily – bringing delight to plant lovers and felines alike!