Growing Catnip in Pots
Catnip is a fragrant, minty herb loved by cats and humans alike. Cats tend to become incredibly enthusiastic when the herb is crushed and inhaled, but the herb can also be ingested safely, and even used in teas, for humans. Growing catnip in pots is simple and fun, and beneficial for your feline friends.
How Many Catnip Seeds for Your Pot?
When it comes to germinating catnip in a pot, the amount of catnip seeds you will need to start depends on the size of your pot. Of course, that’s often based on how many cats you want to have with access to your indoor garden. For a small pot, it’s usually safe to start with about one tablespoon of catnip seeds.
Planting and Germinating Catnip Seeds
It’s important when planting your catnip seeds that you choose the right medium to start. Catnip prefers a moist environment that’s not too acidic, so you’ll want to use a soil with high organic material and enough drainage to keep the plant’s roots from becoming waterlogged. Make sure to sow the seeds a few inches apart and lightly cover them with the soil.
Once planted, give your catnip plenty of sun and water; your catnip seeds should germinate in about two weeks. Once the seedlings have sprouted and been given time to grow a few more inches, you can thin out the weak ones and only leave the strongest plants behind.
Caring for Catnip After Germination
Once your catnip is established, there are a few tips to follow to ensure it stays healthy and yields a good harvest:
- Provide sunlight: Catnip thrives in an environment with six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day, so make sure to place your pot in a sunny area.
- Keep it watered: To ensure that your catnip stays healthy, you should water it regularly, and more often during hot days.
- Don’t forget to prune: Trimming off wilted leaves and flower stalks can help keep your catnip looking good, as well as keeps the plant from losing too much of its energy.
Once your catnip is in full bloom, you can harvest it for a delicious tea or to share with your furry friends. Enjoy!
