When to plant Catnip in Lake County, FL
Lake County sits in cold Zone 9b. Plant Catnip February 19–March 5 for the single annual harvest; the December 11 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Catnip in Lake County, FL
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.
Lake County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 12 and the first fall frost is December 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 302 days.
At an elevation of 130 feet, Lake County receives approximately 56.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Catnip may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Catnip will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Catnip root diseases.
Lake County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.1-5.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Catnip
Catnip needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Catnip Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 8.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 8.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Lake County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Catnip Planting Timeline — Lake County, FL
Catnip Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Harvest | April 23 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
60–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
302 days in Lake County
Growing Tips for Lake County
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.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Catnip in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Catnip in Lake County, FL?
Lake County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 12. Plan your Catnip planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lake County, FL?
Lake County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 12 and first fall frost is December 11.
When should I plant Catnip in Lake County, FL?
In Lake County, FL, plant Catnip after the last frost (around February 12) and before the first frost (around December 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lake County, FL for Catnip?
Lake County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Catnip grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Catnip grow in Lake County's climate?
Yes — Catnip grows well in Lake County's temperate climate. Lake County averages a 303-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 12 and first frost around December 11.
Your Lake County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lake County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.