As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had experience growing catnip and I can confidently say that cutting back catnip plants is indeed beneficial. Whether you are growing catnip for your feline friends or for human consumption, cutting back the plants is a necessary step in maintaining their health and promoting vigorous growth.
When it comes to catnip, it is important to understand that the leaves are the desired part of the plant. By cutting back the plants, you are encouraging the growth of fresh, tender leaves that have a higher concentration of the aromatic compounds that cats and humans find so enticing.
Ideally, the best time to cut back catnip plants is in late stage 1 or stage 2 at the latest. At this stage, the plants have established a good root system and have grown a decent amount of foliage. By cutting them back almost to the ground, leaving about 3″ (6.7 cm) of stem, you are stimulating new growth from the base of the plant.
To perform the cutting back, use a sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud to encourage new shoots to emerge. Avoid cutting too close to the ground, as this may damage the plant’s crown.
After cutting back the catnip plants, it is important to provide them with proper care to ensure their healthy regeneration. Make sure they receive adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Regularly monitor the soil moisture and water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Within a few weeks, you will start to see new growth emerging from the base of the plants. These fresh shoots will quickly develop into lush foliage, ready to be enjoyed by cats or used in herbal teas and culinary recipes for humans.
In my experience, cutting back catnip plants has proven to be an effective method for rejuvenating the plants and ensuring a continuous supply of high-quality leaves. It not only promotes healthier growth but also helps to control the size and shape of the plants, preventing them from becoming leggy or unruly.
If you are growing catnip, whether for your furry friends or for your own enjoyment, cutting back the plants is a necessary step to encourage fresh growth and maintain the desired leaf quality. By following the proper technique and providing the plants with proper care, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of aromatic catnip leaves. So go ahead, grab those shears and give your catnip plants a good haircut!
