Catnip
Catnip, not just for cats! Nepeta cataria or catnip as it's known in the common tongue, is a perennial herb in the mint family that was once used in folk remedies. In modern days, catnip’s essential oils are used in a number of pharmaceutical products and supplements. Catnip contains thymol, a compound that can be used as an antiseptic and fungicidal properties. and its extract has a mild anti-spasmodic effect, reducing muscle cramps. Researchers have also found that catnip contains several chemicals that repel insects.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | High |
| Capital | Medium |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Farmer's Market
- Local Grocery
Pests & Disease
Weeds are the greatest threat to production because catnip is a poor competitor with other plants. Catnip oil contains compounds that discourage insect feeding and fungal growth, it has few insect and disease pests.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Returns are incredibly variable for Catnip depending on markets.
Challenges
- Strong marketing skills are needed for success with such a niche product like catnip.
- Wholesale herb markets are difficult to break into since prices fluctuate widely.
Opportunities
- Could make hand-crafted pet accessories sold directly to consumers at farmers markets and other direct markets.
- Producers with creativity and good marketing skills may be able to capture a local or regional niche in the pet supply market.