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When to Plant Catnip in Massachusetts

Catnip is a hardy perennial herb in the mint family known for its effect on cats. It also makes a calming tea and is a useful companion plant that repels some pests.

Massachusetts spans USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Catnip planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Hover over a county to see details. Click to view planting guide.

Catnip Planting Calendar for Massachusetts

Zone 5b ~178 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 18 · First frost: October 13 · 178 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 25 Apr 25 – May 9
Harvest June 27 Jun 27 – Aug 29
Zone 6a ~193 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 10 · First frost: October 20 · 193 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 17 Apr 17 – May 1
Harvest June 19 Jun 19 – Aug 21
Zone 6b ~205 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 3 · First frost: October 25 · 205 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 10 Apr 10 – Apr 24
Harvest June 12 Jun 12 – Aug 14
Zone 7a ~221 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 25 · First frost: November 1 · 221 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 1 Apr 1 – Apr 15
Harvest June 3 Jun 3 – Aug 5

Growing Tips for Massachusetts

Direct sow or start indoors. Catnip is very easy to grow and can become invasive. Harvest leaves before flowering for tea. Protect young plants from cats.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Catnip in Massachusetts?

Planting dates for Catnip in Massachusetts depend on your USDA zone. Massachusetts spans zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Massachusetts for planting?

Massachusetts contains USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.