To effectively store catnip plants, you can either preserve harvested foliage for long-term use or maintain live plants for continuous fresh access. The most common and effective method for storing harvested catnip is by drying it to retain its potency and aroma.
Drying Harvested Catnip for Long-Term Storage
Drying catnip is an excellent way to preserve its natural compounds, ensuring your feline friends can enjoy it for months. The process is straightforward and helps prevent mold and spoilage.
Air Drying Method
This traditional method is simple and requires minimal equipment.
- Harvesting: Gather stems of catnip when the plant is mature, ideally before it flowers or just as flowers begin to appear, as this is when the oil content is highest.
- Preparation: Gently shake off any loose dirt or insects. Avoid washing the catnip unless absolutely necessary, as excess moisture can hinder drying and promote mold. If you must wash, ensure it's thoroughly dry before proceeding.
- Bundling: Gather a handful of catnip stems into a bouquet. Tie the stems together securely with string or a rubber band. This helps keep them together as they dry and shrink.
- Hanging: Hang the bundled plant upside down in a cool, dark, and dry location. Good air circulation is crucial. Ideal locations include a pantry, attic, or a corner of a garage. Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade the essential oils and diminish potency.
- Drying Time: Catnip typically dries within one to three weeks, depending on humidity and air circulation. The leaves should feel brittle and crumble easily when fully dry.
- Inspection: Regularly check the drying catnip for any signs of mold. Discard any affected portions immediately.
Alternative Drying Methods
| Method | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Drying Screens | Spread catnip leaves and small stems in a single layer on a mesh drying screen or a clean window screen. Ensure good air circulation above and below. Turn occasionally for even drying. | Larger batches of loose leaves or those without long stems. |
| Dehydrator | If you have a food dehydrator, spread the catnip in a single layer on the trays. Set the temperature to the lowest setting (typically 95-105°F or 35-40°C) and dry until crispy. | Fast drying, especially in humid climates. Offers more controlled conditions. |
Storing Dried Catnip
Once thoroughly dry, proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and potency.
- Remove Leaves: Gently strip the dried leaves and flowers from the stems. You can crumble them by hand or process them lightly in a food processor for a finer texture.
- Airtight Containers: Store the dried catnip in an airtight container, such as glass jars with tight-fitting lids, or vacuum-sealed bags. This protects it from moisture and light.
- Location: Keep the containers in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Longevity: Properly stored dried catnip can maintain its potency for 6-12 months. Over time, its effectiveness may gradually diminish.
Maintaining Live Catnip Plants
If you prefer fresh catnip, you can store the "plant" by keeping it alive and thriving.
Indoor Storage (Potted Plants)
- Sunlight: Catnip thrives in bright light. Place potted plants near a sunny window where they can receive at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
- Pruning: Regularly pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushier plants and more foliage production. This also helps keep the plant healthy for longer.
- Temperature: Maintain average room temperatures (65-75°F or 18-24°C).
- Pest Control: Monitor for common houseplant pests like spider mites or aphids and address them promptly with natural remedies if necessary.
Outdoor Storage (Garden Plants)
- Location: Plant catnip in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. It's quite hardy and can tolerate various conditions.
- Mulching: In colder climates, a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help protect its roots during winter, allowing it to return in spring.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers and trim back leggy growth to encourage new growth and maintain plant vigor.
- Winter Dormancy: Catnip is a perennial and will often go dormant in colder months, returning from its roots in spring.
By following these methods, you can ensure a steady supply of fresh or dried catnip for your feline companions.
