How to make catnip grow bushy?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.To achieve a bushy catnip plant, the correct pruning and growing conditions must be in place. When you pinch the tips of the stems, growth hormones are redirected to nearby lateral branches. You also need a sufficient light source and space for bushy, dense leaf growth. These measures can transform lanky plants into compact and productive herbs.
Pruning Methods
- Pinch stem tips above leaf nodes when plants reach 6 inches
- Cut back leggy stems by one-third during early growth
- Remove flower buds to redirect energy to foliage
Light Optimization
- Provide 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
- Rotate container plants weekly for even exposure
- Supplement with grow lights in low-light areas
Spacing Management
- Space plants 18-24 inches apart in garden beds
- Use 12-inch containers for single plants
- Thin seedlings early to prevent competition
Prune when your plants have 4-6 sets of true leaves. Use clean shears to prune right above the leaf nodes. This will stimulate lateral branching at each cut. Continue this every month during periods of active growth for optimal business performance.
Please avoid using fertilizers, as they promote vertical growth rather than bushiness. Instead, use compost tea for gentle nutrition. Good drainage is essential to prevent root stress, which can cause disorganized growth. Water only when the topsoil has dried out thoroughly for the best compact plants.
Observe plants for any improvement. Healthy bushy catnip has multiple stems at the base. Leaves should be dense and aromatic. Harvest outer leaves consistently to encourage the shape. These practices will support ongoing production throughout the season.
Read the full article: How to Grow Catnip: The Complete Guide
