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When to Plant Catnip in Tennessee

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.

Tennessee spans USDA hardiness zones 6b, 7a, 7b (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.

Catnip Planting Calendar for Tennessee

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
Zone 7b ~235 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 18 · First frost: November 8 · 235 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 25 Mar 25 – Apr 8
Harvest May 27 May 27 – Jul 29

Growing Tips for Tennessee

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 Tennessee?

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

What zone is Tennessee for planting?

Tennessee contains USDA hardiness zones 6b, 7a, 7b. 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.