Summary
Catnip , a beloved herbaceous plant known for its euphoric outcome on felines , is a fantastic plus to any hombre owner ’s garden . Harvesting thisaromatic works ensuresa refreshful provision of itsirresistible allurefor your furry supporter . This comprehensive scout will provide you with all theessential stepsand tips on how to harvest catnip , ensuring you maximise its dominance and enjoy its benefit for yr to come .
When to Harvest Catnip
The idealistic time toharvest catnipis during its blooming period , typically from mid to late summertime . The aromatic oils , responsible for its mesmerise core on cats , are at theirpeak concentrationduring this time . Look for works withvibrant green leavesand clusters of small , whitened or purple efflorescence .
How to Identify Catnip
If you ’re unsure whether a plant is catnip , there are a few telling signs to look for . The leaves are typically kernel - shaped , withserrated edgesand a slightly fuzzy grain . When break down , the leave release a warm , minty scent . Additionally , catnip flora tendto have square stems and farm up to 2 - 3 foot in stature .
Materials You’ll Need
Before embarking on yourcatnip harvest home adventure , pile up the following material :
Step-by-Step Harvesting Instructions
1 . Choose Healthy plant : Select catnip plantsthat are healthy and free of pestilence or diseases.2 . Cut Stems : Usingpruning shearsor scissors , issue the stems of thecatnip plantabout 6 - 8 inches from the base.3 . Remove Leaves : Strip the leaves from the stems . you’re able to do this by hand or use a fork togently combthem off.4 . Collect Leaves : Place theharvested catnip leavesin paper bags or airtight containers.5 . dry out the parting : distribute thecatnip leaveson a dry out rack or dehydrate them at alow temperature(100 - 120 ° F ) for several hours or until they are completely dry.6 . stash away the Catnip : Once thecatnip leavesare dry , store them inairtight containersin a nerveless , dark post . This will preserve their potence and freshness .
Tips for Maximizing Potency
Using Harvested Catnip
Theharvested Nepeta cataria leavescan be used in various ways to nurse and excite your feline friend :
Harvesting Catnip for Commercial Use
If you ’re interested inharvesting catnipfor commercial purpose , stick to the samesteps outlinedabove . However , you may require to hold a permit or license from the appropriateregulatory say-so . Additionally , consider the following :
Final Thoughts: The Joy of Harvesting Catnip
Harvesting catnip is a rewarding experience that reserve you to bring home the bacon yourfurry companionwith a natural andstimulating delicacy . By follow thesteps outlinedin this guide , you could assure you harvest catnip at its peak dominance and enjoy its benefits for geezerhood to come . So , grab your pruning shear and embark on a fragrant adventure to bring the illusion of catnip to your feline supporter .
Information You Need to Know
1 . How often can I glean catnip?You canharvest catnip multiple timesthroughout thegrowing time of year , typically every 6 - 8 weeks.2 . Can Idry catnipin the sun?While you candry catnipin the sun , it ’s important toavoid direct sunlight , which can damage the leaves and reduce their potency.3 . How long doesharvested catniplast?Properly dried andstored catnipcan last for up to a year.4 . Is it safe for cats to eat overbold Nepeta cataria leaves?Yes , fresh Nepeta cataria leavesare good for cats to eat in relief . However , it ’s best to put in it gradually to avoid belly upset.5 . Can I grow catnip indoors?Yes , you cangrow catnip indoorsin pot or planter , but itrequires plentyof sunlight and right drainage.6 . What are the benefit of catnip for cats?Catnip has calm andstimulating effectson true cat , promoting playfulness , liberalization , and overall well - being.7 . Can humanity use catnip?While catmint is not toxic to humans , it does not have the sameeuphoric effectsas it does on CAT . It may have somemedicinal properties , but enquiry is still limited.8 . How can Iprevent catnipfrom buy the farm to seed?Toprevent catnipfrom going to sow , cabbage off theflower budsas they appear . This will encourage the plant to produce more leaves.9 . What are some other way to use catnip?In addition to using it for cats , catnip can be used torepel insects , make tea , and even as a natural cleanup agent.10 . Can Igive catnipto kittens?Yes , you cangive catnipto kittens in temperance , but it ’s important to start withsmall amountstoavoid overwhelmingthem .
