Catnip can become rampant if not kept under control. This is the main reason for many people to prune this perennial regularly. But there are many other reasons why a cut can make sense.
When and why should you cut catnip?
Catnip should be cut to maintain he alth, extend the flowering period, slow down growth, use as a medicinal or aromatic plant and for propagation. Use different cutting measures in spring, summer and autumn.
To maintain he alth
Pruning, for example when there is disease, lets the catnip know: 'You have to assert yourself!'. If it is affected by powdery mildew, it helps to remove the inflorescences in summer. This allows the catnip to invest its attention and energy in fighting the fungus.
To extend the flowering period
If you want to enjoy the blooms of your catnip until fall, you should prune the perennial after the main bloom.
Cut the plant either to just above the ground or the inflorescences to the first leaf. Then new flowers appear and flowering continues until autumn. A good side effect: the self-sowing of catnip is prevented.
To slow down the urge to spread
Another reason for cutting catnip is to slow down its tendency to spread. To do this, cut back to the ground on a frost-free day in the spring between February and March. It is best to use sharp secateurs (€14.00 on Amazon) for this procedure.
Don't be too hasty and make the mistake of cutting catnip in the fall. You can only cut back the withered inflorescences in autumn. The remaining stalks serve as protection against moisture, for example from snow in winter.
For use as a medicinal and seasoning plant
Don't forget that some people use catnip as a medicinal and seasoning plant. For example, individual flowers can be cut off in summer and used to enhance the color of dishes such as sweet desserts and fruit salads. The stems with the leaves can also be cut off, dried and used, among other things:
- for smoking
- for smoking
- for tea
For propagation
On top of that, you cut the catnip to propagate it. Propagation via cuttings is considered the most proven and common method. The cuttings are ideally taken from the plant between April and June. The lowest leaves are then removed and the cuttings are placed in a glass of water in which they can root.
Tips & Tricks
Even if you feel bothered by cats because they like to be near the catnip, it helps to cut the catnip radically. Then you have enough time to think of an obstacle for the cats.
