Nepeta cataria L. Catnip Seeds, catmint, field balm

Catnip Seeds : Nepeta cataria L.

Key Features & Details Catmint, Field balm

• Sowing: Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors after the last frost. Lightly cover seeds with soil. Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
• Notes: A must-have for cat owners due to its stimulating effect on felines. Flowers attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and wasps. Contains natural compounds that repel pests such as mosquitoes, flies, aphids, and various beetles. Also deters ants, rats, and mice. Dried leaves can be used in aromatic sachets or potpourri. Generally avoided by deer and rabbits.

Botanical Information Catswort Seeds

• Botanical Name: Nepeta cataria L.
• Common Names: catnip seeds, catmint, catswort, field balm
• Family: Lamiaceae
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Flower Color: white or lavender with purple spots
• Flower Time: late spring to early fall
• Height: 2-3 feet tall and wide

Characteristics and Usage Catnip

• Good for cat enrichment
• Attracts pollinators
• Natural pest repellent (mosquitoes, flies, aphids, Colorado potato beetles, flea beetles, Japanese beetles, squash bugs, ants, rats, mice)
• Suitable for borders, path edging, cottage gardens, herb gardens, and containers
• Low maintenance
• Drought tolerant
• Deer and rabbit resistant

Growing Conditions Catswort Seeds

• Sunlight: Full sun, tolerates partial shade especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: Average to poor, well-drained soil; adaptable to various soil types, good drainage is crucial.
• Habitat: Temperate regions, native to Europe and Asia, naturalized in North America.
• Moisture: Drought-tolerant once established; regular watering during dry periods is beneficial for optimal growth.
• Germination: Seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept consistently moist at a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C) until germination, which usually takes 7-10 days.
• Additional Notes: This is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It can be pinched back in the spring to promote denser, more compact growth. Shearing flower spikes after initial blooming can encourage continued flowering.

Uses and Garden Appeal

• Attracts Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, wasps, flies.