Planting Catnip for Cats: A Guide to Growing Your Own Supply
If you're a cat owner, you know how much they love catnip. This herb can provide hours of entertainment for your furry friend, but constantly buying it from the store can add up over time. That's where planting your own catnip comes in. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also ensures that you have a fresh supply on hand whenever your cat wants it. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of planting catnip for cats.
Why Plant Catnip?
There are many benefits to planting your own catnip. Firstly, it's cost-effective. Buying catnip from the store can get expensive over time, but growing your own supply means you'll always have it on hand for your furry friend without having to break the bank. Additionally, growing your own catnip allows you to control the quality of the herb. You know exactly what goes into growing it, and that it's free from any potentially harmful chemicals or pesticides.
Getting Started
The first thing you need to do when planting catnip is find a suitable location. Catnip prefers full sun, so look for an area in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It's also important to make sure the soil is well-draining, as catnip doesn't like to sit in water.
Once you've found a suitable location, it's time to prepare the soil. Catnip prefers soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can adjust the pH by adding lime or sulfur. Mix in some compost or aged manure to help improve the soil's structure and nutrient content.
Planting Catnip
Now that you've prepared the soil, it's time to plant your catnip. You can either start catnip seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow them directly into the ground after the last frost has passed. Make sure to plant them in rows spaced about 18 inches apart, with the seeds placed about ¼ inch deep in the soil.
Water your catnip regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Once your catnip plants reach about 4-6 inches tall, you can begin harvesting the leaves and stems. Simply pinch off the top few inches of growth, leaving some leaves on the stem so the plant can continue to grow.
Caring for Your Catnip Plants
Catnip is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things you can do to ensure it grows healthy and strong. Regularly fertilizing your catnip will help promote growth and keep the leaves green and healthy. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Another important thing to consider when caring for your catnip plants is pests. While catnip isn't typically bothered by many pests, aphids and spider mites can occasionally be a problem. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, and treat it promptly if necessary.
In conclusion, planting catnip for cats is a great way to provide your furry friend with a fresh supply of this beloved herb while also saving money. By following these simple steps, you can successfully grow your own catnip and enjoy watching your cat play and relax in its effects. Give it a try, and see just how easy it is to become a catnip gardener!
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