Catnip Seeds, Nepeta cataria

Nepeta cataria (Catnip, Catmint) is a short-lived perennial, herbaceous plant that grows to be 50–100 cm (20–40 in) tall and wide, and that blooms from late spring to autumn. In appearance, N. cataria resembles a typical member of the mint family of plants, featuring brown-green foliage with the characteristic square stem of the plant family Lamiaceae. The coarse-toothed leaves are triangular to elliptical in shape.The small, bilabiate flowers of N. cataria are fragrant and are either pink in colour or white with fine spots of pale purple.

GROW: Catmints are fast-growing plants. When they first begin in spring, they form tidy little mounds of neat new foliage. They quickly grow outward and begin to set their buds for their flower show. Many species of catmint can become weedy in the garden setting. For catnip, seed sowing should occur after the seeds about been placed in a freezer overnight. After this period, allow the seeds to soak in water for a period of 24 hours. This will allow for easier and more uniform germination rates. After the stratification process has been completed, use a seed starting tray to plant the seeds. Place the tray in a warm location near a windowsill or under grow lights. When kept consistently moist, germination should occur within 5-10 days. Move the seedlings to a bright location. When the chance of frost has passed, harden the seedlings off and plant into the desired location.

HARVEST:

• When to harvest: Snip catnip leaves anytime once the plant is 10cm tall or taller. The flavour of catnip is milder before the plant blooms. If harvesting leaves for your cat, wait until the plant blooms.
• How to harvest: Snip off individual leaves as needed; the top leaves will be young and tender. Use scissors or snips. When harvesting to dry leaves, cut whole stems complete with their flower stalks about 5cm from the soil surface.

USE: Either fresh or dried, Much like other herbal teas, catmint herbal tea can aid digestive problems such as upset stomachs, excessive gas, diarrhea, and nausea. It’s also good for respiratory problems such as cold, cough, and chest congestion. Catmint could also help to relieve stomach pain and menstrual cramps too.