Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a popular perennial herb in the mint family, sought after by pet owners for its effect on cats and by gardeners for its repellent and medicinal properties. It is relatively easy to grow, whether cultivated indoors in a container or outdoors in a garden bed. Finding a reliable source for a healthy plant is the first step in introducing this aromatic herb to your home.
Identifying the Right Species of Catnip
Not all plants within the Nepeta genus, which includes various “catmints,” provide the same euphoric effect on cats. The true catnip species is Nepeta cataria, which possesses the highest concentration of nepetalactone, the compound responsible for the feline reaction. Ornamental varieties, such as Nepeta mussinii or Nepeta × faassenii (catmint), are sold for their attractive, long-blooming flowers and compact growth. These contain lower levels of nepetalactone and may not affect cats as strongly. Always verify the botanical name, Nepeta cataria, on the label or seed packet to ensure you purchase the intended herb.
Retail Options for Purchasing Catnip Plants
The most straightforward places to find established catnip plants are at physical garden locations during the spring and summer growing seasons. Local nurseries and independent garden centers often carry Nepeta cataria in small, potted “start” sizes. These local vendors offer personalized advice and their stock is usually acclimated to the regional climate.
Larger chain stores with garden departments, such as home improvement centers, also stock catnip alongside other herbs. While convenient, the selection might be limited, and you must check the plant’s health and confirm the specific species.
For a wider selection or purchasing outside the main planting season, specialty online herb suppliers and larger e-commerce platforms are excellent resources. Purchasing live plants online requires careful vetting of the vendor, focusing on reviews related to shipping live material.
Online suppliers often ship plants bare-root or in small plug trays. They may be the only option for finding organic or specific heirloom varieties of Nepeta cataria. Confirm the vendor’s shipping policies and delivery dates to minimize the time the plant spends in transit.
Deciding Between Seeds and Established Plants
The choice between buying seeds or an established potted plant depends on your gardening experience and desired speed of growth. Buying an established plant, often called a “start,” provides immediate gratification and allows you to harvest leaves much sooner than from seed. This option also bypasses the time-consuming process of germinating catnip seeds, which possess a hard seed coat.
Starting from seed is significantly more cost-effective, especially if you need many plants or plan to grow them over multiple seasons. Catnip seeds often require stratification, a process that simulates winter conditions by chilling the seeds, to encourage successful sprouting. Seeds are typically sown indoors about six weeks before the last expected frost date, requiring patience before the plant is large enough for harvest.
Immediate Care for Newly Purchased Catnip
Upon bringing your catnip plant home, address its immediate needs to prevent transplant shock. If the plant arrived potted, check the soil moisture level and water thoroughly if the top inch of soil is dry, allowing excess water to drain completely. Catnip prefers well-drained soil and can suffer from root rot if left in standing water.
Place the plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade, which is ideal for healthy growth. If the plant was shipped or grown indoors, gradually acclimate it to direct sunlight over a few days to prevent leaf scorch. Because Nepeta cataria can spread aggressively through underground runners and self-seeding, consider keeping your plant in a container to manage its growth outdoors.