Catnip is not only a provider of trippy experiences for your cats (if you have them), it’s also a favorite of many a pollinator. Bees, especially bumble types and honey bees, flock to the flower spikes of catnip from the moment they begin blooming. Butterflies will be right behind them. The upright nature of these plants and their desire to be grown in well-drained, if not raised, sites beckons for planting in an area where one can sit nearby and watch the many beautiful winged creatures that come to enjoy the flowers.

Catnip is a naturalized North American perennial, with origins in Europe and Asia. It has a historical connection to honey bees, and that connection continues today.

Nepeta cataria is fast-growing once established, which means that it will easily outlast the affections and highs of a cat or few, and rise to provide for pollinators. The two farm cats, plus a visitor from the neighbors, have happily crash-tested this statement repeatedly and proven it true. Even one of the cats repeatedly passing out at the “feet” of one particular catnip plant has not deterred it’s growth one bit.

Care:

Catnip is low maintenance. It requires little help once established, other than pruning the spent flower spikes to encourage more blooms over a longer season. Otherwise, the main key is to choose a desirable site for it to grow.

When selecting a site for catnip, consider your summer season temperatures and drainage. Catnip thrives in full sun in northern climates, but further south it should be given some reprieve from the sun – particularly during the mid day and early afternoon.

Catnip loves a site that dries out at times, and if you have a relatively dry location, Nepeta is quite tolerant of this and can make a good fit. Most importantly, avoid locations that are soggy in the winter. This will often cause the plants root system to rot.

If desired, Catnip can be split every other year. Cuttings are also fairly easily rooted, as well (best before bloom season). You may experience some self sowing. If you don’t wish for it to spread, don’t worry, your cats will help you find any escapees.