Some love her, while others are happy when she finally disappeared from the garden. By self-sowing, the catnip likes to multiply quickly and independently. But you can also take the propagation into your own hands.
Method 1: Sowing
Catnip produces numerous small seeds after its flowering period. This is how they become new perennials:
- collect in autumn and sow in spring
- cover lightly with nutrient-poor soil
- ideal germination temperature: 20 °C
- keep soil moistured
- after 2 to 3 weeks the seeds will germinate
- plant out after the ice saints
Method 2: Division
Another method is to share the catnip. Over the years, a small perennial grows into a plant that takes up a lot of space and tends to lose vigor over time. Therefore, it is advisable to divide the catnip every 2 to 3 years.
The best period has come between April and June. The old plant is dug up. Then take a spade and cut the plant in half. The root balls are generously watered before planting. Then they grow well.
Method 3: Propagation by cuttings
In early spring or in autumn, for example, when the plant is pruned annually, the cuttings can be propagated. This method is the most common, fastest and most effective.
Procedure:
- cut off a shoot that is 7 to 10 cm long
- remove lower leaves
- Place the cuttings in a glass or vase with water
- leave in a bright, warm place - Caution: out of the reach of cats)
- Renew water regularly to avoid rot
- if rooted plant in soil
tips and tricks
There are varieties that cannot be propagated by seed or only with difficulty. These include, for example, the small catnip / blue mint and the white-flowered catnip.
KKF