White CatnipWHITE CATNIP, organic seeds

Nepeta cataria

White Catnipis a versatile herb valued for its uses in gardening, as a medicinal plant, and as a favorite treat for cats.

Description

Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family).
Leaves: Heart-shaped, grayish-green, and covered with fine hairs.
Flowers: White to pale purple, often with purple speckles. Blooms from mid-summer to late autumn.
Height: 40–100 cm (16–40 inches).
Aroma: Lemon-like scent, which is particularly attractive to cats

Growing Conditions

Light

Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Soil

Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
Can tolerate sandy or dry soil.
Optimal pH: 6.0–7.5.

Planting

Seeds: Sow directly outdoors in spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
Sowing depth: About 0.5 cm (¼ inch).
Spacing: Space plants 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
Propagation: Can also be propagated by cuttings or by dividing root clumps.

Watering

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring moderate watering. Avoid waterlogged soil, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Fertilizer is generally unnecessary, but compost or a balanced fertilizer can be added to poor soil.

Care

Catnip self-seeds easily, so to control spread, trim back spent flowers before they go to seed.
Pruning after the first bloom encourages denser growth and additional flowering.

White Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
White Catnip, also known simply as Catnip or Catmint, is a versatile herb valued for its uses in gardening, as a medicinal plant, and as a favorite treat for cats.
Description
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family).
Leaves: Heart-shaped, grayish-green, and covered with fine hairs.
Flowers: White to pale purple, often with purple speckles. Blooms from mid-summer to late autumn.
Height: 40–100 cm (16–40 inches).
Aroma: Lemon-like scent, which is particularly attractive to cats.
Growing Conditions
Light
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
Soil
Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
Can tolerate sandy or dry soil.
Optimal pH: 6.0–7.5.
Planting
Seeds: Sow directly outdoors in spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
Sowing depth: About 0.5 cm (¼ inch).
Spacing: Space plants 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
Propagation: Can also be propagated by cuttings or by dividing root clumps.
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established, requiring moderate watering. Avoid waterlogged soil, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer is generally unnecessary, but compost or a balanced fertilizer can be added to poor soil.
Care
Catnip self-seeds easily, so to control spread, trim back spent flowers before they go to seed.
Pruning after the first bloom encourages denser growth and additional flowering.
Uses
For Cats:
- Contains nepetalactone, a compound that induces playful or relaxed behavior in cats.
- Commonly used in cat toys, dried mixes, or as a fresh treat.
As a Medicinal Herb:
- Known for its calming effects – often brewed into tea to relieve insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues.
- Offers anti-inflammatory and sweat-inducing properties.
In Gardening:
- Attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.
- Works as a decorative ground cover or border plant in gardens.
Natural Pest Repellent:
- Repels pests like mosquitoes and aphids when planted near vegetables or other crops.