Is it OK to grow catnip?
Growing catnip in your garden is not only OK, but it can also bring numerous benefits to both you and your garden. Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a fantastic garden plant that adds beauty and fragrance to any outdoor space.
1. Easy to grow: One of the great things about catnip is that it is relatively easy to grow. It is a hardy perennial plant that can thrive in various soil types and tolerates different growing conditions. Whether you have a sunny spot or a partially shaded area in your garden, catnip can adapt and flourish.
2. Attractive appearance: Catnip forms a clump of slender branching stems, reaching up to 90cm in height and 60cm in width. The toothed grey-green leaves add an interesting texture to the plant, creating a beautiful foliage backdrop in your garden. The overall appearance of catnip is neat and tidy, making it a visually appealing addition to any garden bed or border.
3. Abundant blooms: During the summer months, catnip produces clusters of tiny violet flowers with white spots. These blooms are not only charming and delicate but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. The sight of these buzzing visitors adds life and vitality to the outdoor space, creating a vibrant and thriving ecosystem.
4. Aromatic scent: One of the most well-known characteristics of catnip is its distinct fragrance. The leaves of catnip contain a compound called nepetalactone, which has a strong and pleasant scent. This aroma is known to be irresistible to cats, making catnip a popular choice for cat owners. However, even if you don’t have a feline friend, the fragrance of catnip can still be enjoyed by humans, adding a delightful scent to your garden.
5. Medicinal properties: Catnip has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is known to have calming effects and can be used to make herbal teas or infusions to help with relaxation and sleep. Additionally, catnip can also be used as a natural insect repellent, particularly against mosquitoes. So, by growing catnip in your garden, you can have a natural remedy and insect deterrent at your fingertips.
6. Low maintenance: Another reason why it is OK to grow catnip is that it requires minimal maintenance. Once established, catnip is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t demand constant attention. It is drought-tolerant and can survive periods of neglect. However, regular watering and occasional pruning can help promote healthy growth and prolong the blooming period.
7. Versatile uses: Apart from its ornamental and medicinal uses, catnip can also be used in cooking. The leaves of catnip can be harvested and used to flavor dishes, similar to other herbs like mint or basil. It adds a unique and slightly minty taste to foods, making it a fun and interesting ingredient to experiment with in the kitchen.
Growing catnip is more than just OK – it is highly recommended! Its easy cultivation, attractive appearance, abundant blooms, aromatic scent, medicinal properties, low maintenance requirements, and versatile uses make catnip a valuable addition to any garden. So, go ahead and plant some catnip, and enjoy the beauty and benefits it brings to your outdoor space.
