Growing Catnip in Zone 3B

Catnip is more than a cat toy — it’s a useful companion plant that repels aphids, squash bugs, and flea beetles, while also making a calming herbal tea.

Zone 3B has a short growing season — start seeds indoors when possible and use season-extending techniques like cold frames and row covers.

Top Growing Tips

• Protect young plants from cats until established — use wire cloches
• Perennial in zones 3-9; spreads by runners and self-seeding
• Harvest before or at early flowering for peak essential oil content
• Dry leaves for tea or sachets; fresh or dried attracts cats equally
• Cut back hard after flowering to promote a second flush of growth

Companion Planting

Good companions: squash, beans, brassicas (repels aphids and flea beetles)

Avoid planting near: Keep away from walkways where cats will repeatedly disturb plants

Harvest Timeline

Harvest anytime; best before flowering; dry at low temperature

About Zone 3B

USDA Hardiness Zone 3B has an average last spring frost around May 15 and first fall frost around Sep 15. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.