To dry catnip, cut the stems, hang them in small bunches in a warm, well-ventilated spot, or spread the leaves on a tray and turn them daily, until the leaves crumble: University of Arizona Extension says this takes two or three weeks, and general herb guidance says a dehydrator at 95-115°F takes one to four hours. Strip the leaves from the stems, store them in a sealed jar and crumble as needed. About two-thirds of cats respond to catnip, and the ASPCA lists it as toxic to cats and notes it can cause vomiting and diarrhea, so offer it in moderation.
The ASPCA lists catnip as toxic to cats (the active compound is nepetalactone) and says many cats love it but it can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and sedate some cats and stimulate others. The ASPCA page we read does not mention dogs. If your cat eats a lot, contact your veterinarian.
Make Sure It Is True Catnip
Missouri Botanical Garden says Nepeta cataria is the true catnip that is loved by house cats. University of Arizona Extension notes that catmint does not stimulate cats, so check the plant label before you harvest for your cat. Illinois Extension notes catnip is a member of the mint family and spreads quickly.
When to Harvest
Sources differ. Arizona says to cut stems before flowering (early to mid summer), Illinois Extension says flavor and aroma peak when the plant is in full bloom, and the National Center for Home Food Preservation says the best time to harvest most herbs for drying is just before the flowers first open, in the early morning after the dew has evaporated. Pick on a dry morning and avoid wilted or damaged stems.
Air Drying
- Hang. Illinois Extension says to cut stems and hang them to dry in a cool, well-ventilated location, and that herb bunches may take up to a month to dry completely.
- Tray. Arizona says to spread the leaves on a tray and turn them once a day to provide aeration; after two or three weeks, they should be dry enough to crumble into flakes.
Dehydrator and Microwave
We found no catnip-specific dehydrator guidance. The general herb rules from the National Center for Home Food Preservation and Oregon State University Extension apply: preheat to 95-115°F, with drying times of 1 to 4 hours, and herbs are dry when they crumble and stems break when bent. Oregon State notes that basil, tarragon, lemon balm and the mints have high moisture content and will mold if not dried quickly, which is a reason to use a dehydrator for a plant in the mint family. See drying herbs in a dehydrator.
For the microwave, Oregon State says a general guide for 1 cup of herbs is 1-2 minutes on high, to never dry more than 1-2 cups at a time, and not to use recycled paper towels, which often contain scraps of metal that can arc and catch fire.
Storage
- Strip the leaves from the coarse stems and store them in sealed containers (Illinois Extension), such as a sealed jar or sealable bag (Arizona).
- Oregon State says whole leaves have the longest shelf life and ground herbs the shortest, and to use dried herbs within six months to one year for best flavor.
- Store in a cool, dry, dark area (NCHFP).
Using Dried Catnip
Illinois Extension says the leaves are used in teas and for stuffing cat toys. University of Arizona Extension says only about two-thirds of domestic cats respond to the herb, so do not be surprised if yours is indifferent. For other herbs, see how to dry herbs.
Quick Answers
How long does catnip take to dry?
Two or three weeks on a tray according to University of Arizona Extension; 1 to 4 hours in a dehydrator at 95-115°F using the general herb rule.
Can I dry catnip in a dehydrator?
Yes, using the general herb setting. We found no catnip-specific guidance.
When should I harvest catnip?
Sources differ: before flowering (Arizona), or in full bloom (Illinois). The NCHFP general rule is just before flowers open.
How do I store dried catnip?
In a sealed jar or bag in a cool, dark, dry place, using it within six months to a year for best flavor.
Is catnip safe for cats?
The ASPCA lists it as toxic to cats; many cats enjoy it, but it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Offer small amounts.
