Nepeta cataria CATNIP (30 seeds)

Catnip, also known as Catmint or Feline Mint, is a fast-growing perennial herb. Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, this aromatic plant is native to Europe and typically stands between 30 and 50 cm tall.

The Romans cultivated it in the city of Nepeti, which is likely the origin of its Latin name, Nepeta.

Its aromatic leaves are oval-shaped with slightly serrated edges. They generally measure between 3 and 10 cm long and have a soft texture to the touch.

The leaves are grayish-green and release a strong, pleasant scent.

The flowers appear in spikes at the top of the stems and are usually lilac or mauve in color. Each flower is about 2 to 3 cm tall and tube-shaped. Flowering occurs in summer and attracts not only cats but also various pollinators, such as bees.

Catnip seeds from Nepeta cataria are small and oval-shaped. They are generally brown or black with a white edge on the top and measure 2 to 3 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

Feline Euphoria: It contains a compound called nepetalactone, which triggers a euphoric reaction in many felines. It is often used as a spray or dried leaf powder to stimulate play and exercise. This herb is completely safe for them; however, the plant itself may be "damaged by love" (from cats rubbing against it).

Medicinal: Although less common than other medicinal herbs, it can be used as an infusion for its relaxing and sedative properties. It is sometimes employed to relieve sleep disorders or anxiety. Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

Ornamental: It is valued in gardens for its beautiful flowers and pleasant aroma. It also attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The optimal time for sowing catnip is in April.
• Sow the seeds in batches of 4 or 5 in separate pots.
• Use a substrate based on fine horticultural potting soil.
• Do not bury the seeds. Water the planting gently using a sprayer.
• Place the pots in a greenhouse in a warm, humid spot and let them germinate.
• Germination will typically begin 4 to 6 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type:

Catnip grows in all types of soil as long as it is well-draining and rich in humus. For pot cultivation, adding a little vermiculite to the substrate is recommended.

- Watering:

It does not require much watering. One or two waterings per week in summer is more than enough for healthy development. In winter, the plant enters a dormant phase, so regular watering is unnecessary.

- Light:

This herb requires a lot of light. It should be placed in full sun to ensure beautiful flowering. For indoor cultivation using artificial light, HPS (High Pressure Sodium) or MH (Metal Halide) lamps are preferred.

- Temperatures:

It grows very well when temperatures are between 15 and 25°C. It is a very hardy variety that will easily withstand significantly negative temperatures.