Catnip Seeds

More Than a Cat Toy — A Hardy Perennial With Genuine Garden Value

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is one of the most cold-hardy perennial herbs available — reliably returning in Zones 3–9, which means it performs across virtually the entire Canadian range where most perennial herbs can’t survive. The plant grows 60–90cm (2–3 feet) tall with soft, heart-shaped, greyish-green leaves and spikes of small white or pale lavender flowers from midsummer through fall. It’s a generous self-seeder, a vigorous spreader from underground roots, and one of the most bee-friendly plants you can put in a garden — a catnip plant in full bloom is constant with bee activity.

The famous feline response — rolling, rubbing, and apparent euphoria triggered by the compound nepetalactone in the leaves — affects about 50–70% of cats and is entirely harmless (it’s mildly sedating, then stimulating, and wears off in about 10 minutes). For the human gardener, catnip’s value goes well beyond the cats: it’s a traditional medicinal herb for calming teas, a documented mosquito repellent (research shows nepetalactone more effective than DEET at equivalent concentrations), and a valuable companion plant that deters aphids and attracts beneficial insects. For a more pleasant-smelling catnip variety, see our Lemon Catnip Seeds — all the same properties with a citrus fragrance.

🌱 How to Grow Catnip from Seed

Catnip grows readily from seed with one important practical note: protect young plants from cats until they’re 30–40cm tall and established enough to withstand attention. Seedlings are vulnerable to being rolled on and eaten before they’ve developed strong enough root systems. Surface sow seeds on moist seed-starting mix — seeds need light; do not cover. Start indoors 6–10 weeks before last frost at 18–22°C (65–72°F); germination takes 10–20 days. Transplant outdoors after last frost, 45–60cm (18–24 inches) apart, in full sun to partial shade.

Catnip is remarkably self-sufficient once established. It tolerates poor soil, drought, and partial shade better than most herbs. Cut back by one-half after the first major bloom period to encourage a second flush of flowers in late summer. It spreads by underground rhizomes and self-seeds prolifically — plant where you’re comfortable with expansion, or contain in a large buried pot. Harvest leaves for tea or cat use any time during the growing season; dry stems by hanging in a warm, airy spot for 1–2 weeks.