When to plant Catnip in Genesee County, MI
Genesee County's short 172-day growing season means one Catnip planting between May 5 and May 19. No fall crop in Zone 6a.
When to Plant Catnip in Genesee County, MI
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.
Genesee County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 172 days.
At an elevation of 1,023 feet, Genesee County receives approximately 39.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Catnip to ensure they mature before fall.
Genesee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Catnip Planting Timeline — Genesee County, MI
Catnip Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 5 | May 5 – May 19 |
| Harvest | July 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
172 days in Genesee County
Growing Tips for Genesee 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 Genesee County, MI?
Genesee County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Catnip planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Genesee County, MI?
Genesee County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Catnip in Genesee County, MI?
In Genesee County, MI, plant Catnip after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Genesee County, MI for Catnip?
Genesee County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Catnip grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Catnip grow in Genesee County's climate?
Yes — Catnip grows well in Genesee County's temperate climate. Genesee County averages a 172-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 17.
Your Genesee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Genesee County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.