Individual leaves take a long time to grow back on your plant. If you’re planning on harvesting your catnip again later in the season, you may want to cut the entire stem instead.
Your kitties will love the stronger scent and flavor of catnip after it blooms. You can also make catnip tea from the aromatic leaves.
Leave the weaker stems on the plant so they have a chance to fill out and continue growing. [7] X Research source You can cut all of the stems off of your plant if you want to dry them in bulk and don’t want to harvest them a second time later in the season.
Since the catnip could attract outside cats, protect your plants with chicken wire while they’re regrowing. [9] X Research source
Since it takes longer to dry, your catnip will be more aromatic and have a stronger flavor. Avoid bundling more than 5 stems together since it blocks air flow and prevents your catnip from drying out properly.
Use a spatula or tongs to move the catnip around on the tray to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
If there’s strong wind or outdoor cats in your area, put an old window screen on top of the tray and weigh it down with stones to protect your catnip.
Leave the flowers on the stem and throw them away.
The catnip will stay safe to use as long as it stays dry, but it starts to lose potency the longer it sits around. [16] X Research source
