Homegrown Happiness: Harvesting, Drying, and Storing Catnip for Your Feline Friend

Catnip, that magical herb that sends felines into a frenzy of playful rolls and head-boops, is surprisingly easy to cultivate and prepare yourself. Not only will you save money compared to store-bought options, but you’ll also be providing your cat with a potent and fresh source of enjoyment. I’ve previously written about harvesting catnip, but here’s is another comprehensive guide on harvesting, drying, and storing catnip for your favorite furry companion.

Harvesting for Peak Potency:

The ideal time to harvest your catnip is when the plant is in full bloom, typically during mid-summer. This is when the essential oils, particularly nepetalactone, the compound responsible for the catnip effect, are at their most concentrated. Aim for a dry day after the morning dew has evaporated to minimize the risk of mold growth on your harvest.

Tools of the Trade:

For harvesting, you’ll need a pair of sharp pruning shears or secateurs. Avoid using blunt tools that can damage the plant. A basket or container will be handy to collect your cuttings. Here are some additional tips for a successful harvest:

• Target the Flowering Stems: Instead of picking individual leaves, it’s more efficient to cut entire flowering stems just above the base of the plant. This encourages bushier growth and promotes quicker regrowth.
• Selective Snipping: Leave some stems and flowers on the plant to allow it to continue producing and self-seed.
• Multiple Harvests: Catnip is a prolific grower, allowing you to harvest throughout the growing season, with a possible second harvest in late summer or early fall.

Drying Techniques:

Once you’ve gathered your catnip bounty, it’s time for the drying process. Here are two effective methods:

Air Drying:

1. Bunch Up: Tie small bunches of catnip stems loosely together with twine or string.
2. Hang it High: Find a cool, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. A dark attic, shed, or a covered porch are great choices.
3. Space it Out: Ensure good air circulation around the bunches by hanging them with enough space between them.
4. Patience is Key: Depending on the humidity and temperature, drying can take anywhere from two to four weeks. The catnip is ready when the leaves and flowers crumble easily between your fingers.

Oven Drying (for Speed):

1. Low and Slow: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting, ideally between 90°F (32°C) and 100°F (38°C).
2. Spread it Thin: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the catnip leaves and flowers in a single layer.
3. Crack the Door: Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
4. Keep an Eye Out: Check on the catnip every 15-20 minutes, turning it occasionally to ensure even drying. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
5. Test for Crispness: The catnip is dry when it crumbles easily and the stems snap cleanly. Don’t let it turn brown or brittle.

Just know, that your house may stink! It is worth it, but it can make you a little dizzy and stink so make sure you leave some windows open to air the house when you do it!

Storing Your Catnip Treasure:

Once your catnip is completely dry, it’s time for the most important step – keeping it fresh and potent for your cat’s future enjoyment. Here’s how to store your catnip effectively:

• Container Choice: Opt for an airtight container made of glass or opaque plastic. Metal containers can react with the oils in catnip, reducing its potency.
• Crumbling Up the Fun: Gently crumble the dried leaves and flowers by hand or with a mortar and pestle. Discard the stems.
• Darkness is Your Friend: Store the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Light and heat can degrade the essential oils in catnip.
• Label it Up: Consider labeling the container with the harvest date so you can track its freshness.

Freshness Matters:

Dried catnip retains its potency for several months, although the intensity will gradually decrease over time. Here are some signs your catnip might need refreshing:

• Reduced Feline Frenzy: If your cat seems less interested in the catnip compared to when it was fresh, it might be time for a new batch.
• Loss of Aroma: Fresh catnip has a distinct, minty scent. If the aroma is faint or undetectable, it’s likely lost its potency.

Bonus Tip: Repurposing Leftover Stems:

Don’t throw away the leftover stems after harvesting. You can add them to your compost pile for nutrient-rich goodness, or bundle them together for a more rustic cat toy that provides a satisfying scratching experience.