Catgrass, which are known botanically as Nepeta Cataria, are a type of herbs that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing catgrass as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Catgrass
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the catgrass seeds in spring, once all chances of frost have passed. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when catgrass are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Catgrass the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing catgrass in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your catgrass grow. Generally, your soil should be loamy, sandy, well-drained. Soil PH levels should be around 6.1 to 7.8.
20″ apart. 18 to 24 inches apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 1/4″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your catgrass seedlings thin catnip seedlings to 12-18 in. apart.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Catgrass
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your catgrass. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your catgrass should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Catgrass
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your catgrass do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your catgrass begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Catgrass to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your catgrass grow.
It takes approximately 10-20 days to germinate, and a total of 80-120 from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Catgrass
The best time to harvest your catgrass is once catnip grows to 6 to 8 inches tall.
Catgrass can grow up to about 6 to 8 inches tall.
What Can Catgrass Be Used For?
Food Use: crush the herb’s leaves into a fine powder.
Flavor Profile: Catnip Fever Flavor,
Can Catgrass Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you will ideally need a 12″+ containerfor each plant. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your catgrass around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Catgrass Safe for Bees?
Yes, catgrass are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing catgrass is bee-friendly.
