Grow a garden filled with Catmint, from freshly harvested Nepeta mussinii herb seeds. Catmint is an attractive, aromatic herb, mainly grown for its minty, spicy flavoring. They are used as a garnish in many deserts and savory dishes as well. The plants will grow to a mature height of roughly 24 to 36 inches tall. The leaves are small and the stems are slender.
Catmint is categorized as a perennial flowering herb. They will establish a deep root system, which they use to reestablish growth the following Spring, even after all plant life has wilted on the surface. If seeds are collected from dried flower heads, you can establish new growth the following season a swell. Most Catmint herbs will eventually drop seeds to the bare ground as well.
Catmint is not only a useful culinary herb, it is also grown for its gorgeous blue flowers. They can bloom all summer long, attracting an array of beneficial insects to the garden, such as butterflies. Bumblebees & honeybees will also cling to these herb plants, due to their highly fragrant flowers.
Quick Facts
- Type: Herb
- Season: Perennial
- Heirloom: Yes
- Color: Lavender
- Height: 24″ to 36″ Tall
- Width: 24″ to 30″ Spread
- Harvest: 75 to 85 Days
- Uses: Medicinal
- Environment: Full Sun / Partial Shade
Sowing The Seed
Catmint seeds can be established indoors, or directly outdoors as well. If started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Plant 2 seeds per pot, directly to the surface of the soil. Do not cover the seeds with a lot of topsoil as they require light to germinate properly. Lightly pressing the seeds into the surface works best. Transplant entire peat pots, or direct sow into the garden when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Catmint plants will thrive in an area of full sunlight to partial shade. They prefer temperatures of 60F to 70F for best germination. The plants will also prefer a soil that is loose, but well drained. To improve drainage, we recommend that you add a light compost to areas consisting of hard, compact soil. Water daily with a mist setting or spray bottle, so that you do not disturb the seeds.
Germination & Growth
Your Catmint seeds will begin to germinate within roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of roughly 24 to 36 inches tall, and can be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. These herbs are mainly used as a garnish for their spicy, minty flavoring. The blue blooms will attract an array of beneficial insects to the garden with their very fragrant scent. Bumblebees & honeybees will cling to these plants.