Growing catnip can save a considerable amount of money over store-bought leaves, but not when strays stop by for their evening fix. A healthy plant can go from fab to drab in a single night if the pungent odor draws passing felines. In addition to sampling tender leaves, cats have been known to vigorously roll around on top of the plants. Do not deprive your cat because of potential plunderers. Use these easy ways to keep cats from destroying outdoor plants, and enjoy a beautiful and bountiful harvest.
Cover the Plants with a Round Metal Trellis
One of the most eye-pleasing and effective ways to protect outdoor catnip plants is with a round metal trellis. Place it over the plant, and firmly push the prongs into the ground. Cats will not be able to roll around on the plants, but they might still be able to reach the leaves. If the trellis has large gaps, tie jute twine around it, or attach chicken wire of the appropriate height. Simply wire it into place. Felines will still be tempted, and they might even be able to steal a leaf or two, but they will not be able to destroy the entire bush.
Scatter Orange Peels around the Catnip
The enticing scent of catnip can be ruined by the smell of fresh orange peels. Cats hate the scent of oranges and other citrus fruits. To keep them from destroying outdoor plants, spread fragrant orange peels around your catnip shrubs. The smell of citrus will overwhelm the scent of their favorite foliage. If old peels are regularly replaced with fresh ones, cats will keep their distance.
Opt for Hanging Planters on Shepherd’s Hooks
Plant removal is the surest way to keep cats from creating a path of destruction through your flowerbeds, but you should not have to stop growing catnip. Use flowerpots instead of planting and growing catnip at ground level, and place the pots well out of reach. Hang the planters on shepherd’s hooks instead of leaving them on the ground. Wayward cats might still try to reach the plants because of the enticing odor. However, as long as the hooks are not located near something that could be used to gain access, the foliage will remain intact.
