It sends cats into ecstasy, people like its pleasant smell and the bee world appreciates its nectar - catnip. What you need to consider when planting this small perennial - about the ideal location and soil, the best planting time and much more.
When and how should I plant catnip?
The best time to plant catnip is in the spring between late April and mid-May. The plant prefers a sunny, warm location with permeable, loose, nutrient-rich soil and a pH value of around 6.4. Pay attention to a sufficient distance from other plants and potential cat visits.
When is the best time to plant?
If you put catnip in the open field, e.g. For example, if you want to plant out in the bed, the ideal time is in spring between the end of April and mid-May. If you want to sow catnip, do so in the spring (mid-March at the earliest).
What location requirements does catnip have?
Catnip is basically undemanding. Based on its homeland in Africa and Asia, it wants a sunny, warm location. It can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. However, it should not be planted in deep shade.
What else should you pay attention to when choosing a location?
Whether in the bed, in a pot on the terrace or window sill or in a balcony box - when planting, it is important to keep a minimum distance of 30 cm from other plants. Well-suited neighbors include roses. If you want to green a larger area with catnip, you can plant between 3 and 8 specimens per square meter.
Furthermore: Remember that cats like to be in the immediate vicinity of the catnip. Catnip has a magical effect on cats. So when growing it, make sure to choose a location where cats are allowed to come or where cats cannot get to it.
What wishes does she have for the underground?
As a rule, normal garden soil meets the needs of catnip. If you want to enjoy it for a long time, you should plant it in substrates or medium-deep soils with the following characteristics:
- permeable
- easy
- nutrient-rich
- sandy to loamy
- pH value: around 6.4
- fresh to moderately moist environment (dryness is well tolerated in contrast to waterlogging)
Tips & Tricks
Before putting the catnip from the pot into the bed, it is recommended to briefly dip the root ball in lukewarm water. The absorbed moisture makes it easier for the roots to grow.
