It smells wonderful, looks beautiful, attracts cats like a magnet and bees also like to frolic on it. But putting all the positive aspects in the background for a moment: How much care does catnip require?
How to properly care for catnip?
Caring for catnip includes a warm location in winter, regular watering and fertilizing of the green-leaved varieties, protection from slugs and pruning after the main flowering. Grey-leaved varieties are easier to care for and require less water and fertilization.
How should catnip be overwintered?
Catnip is perennial and hardy in our latitudes. However, it is important to choose a warm location for it so that it survives the winter without any damage.
If it is kept in a pot, the pot should be covered with fleece (€12.00 on Amazon) or jute over the winter so that the roots do not freeze. Furthermore, it is recommended - both outdoors and in pots - not to cut off the stalks of catnip in autumn. They serve as protection against freezing moisture.
Does she need fertilizer?
The green-leaved varieties should be regularly supplied with fertilizer. Compost is best. It is not advisable to use artificial fertilizers as they tend to contain too much nitrogen. In contrast to the green-leaved varieties, the gray-leaved varieties do not require any fertilizer.
Is watering necessary?
Regular watering of the gray-leaved varieties can sometimes be forgotten. You can go on vacation without a care in the world if you own such plants and expose the plants to the summer heat. These varieties don't mind as they tolerate drought and heat well. The green-leaved varieties have a different polarity. They should be provided with water regularly.
Does it need protection from pests and diseases?
Catnip is insensitive to pests. This is mainly thanks to the active ingredient called nepetalactone, which is contained, among other things, in its leaves and flowers. Pests dislike this smell - exception: snails. However, diseases such as powdery mildew can occur. Then you have to cut back or wash the mushroom with dishwashing liquid.
How and when should it be cut?
The catnip does not necessarily have to be cut, but it can be cut:
- 1. To extend the flowering period until autumn
- 2. To stop the growth
- 3. To preserve the power of the plant
It is cut to just above the ground after the main flowering period - which is usually in July. This is followed by re-blooming, which lasts until autumn. The correct pruning takes place in spring.
Tips & Tricks
Common home remedies help to protect catnip from snail damage. This includes 'beer traps' around the plant, snail fences and picking up the slimy animals.
