About Cat Grass
Cat Grass Tabby is a variegated form of barley grown for its green-and-cream striped blades and its fast, easy indoor growth. It’s commonly grown in small pots or trays as a fresh, clean “nibble grass” for cats (and it also works as a fun ornamental accent in containers if it’s not constantly grazed). Expect rapid growth, a dense stand when sown thickly, and best quality when you grow it in successive small batches.
When to Plant Cat Grass Seeds
Cat Grass Tabby can be planted indoors year-round in any climate, making it an easy and reliable option for continuous use. For a steady supply of fresh grass, sow a new tray or pot every two to three weeks. Outdoors, seeds can be directly sown in early spring or early fall, when temperatures are cooler and growth is most vigorous. This grass prefers mild conditions, so planting during the hottest part of summer is best avoided for the healthiest, most attractive foliage. If desired, seeds may be soaked for 6 to 12 hours before planting to encourage faster and more even germination.
Where to Plant Cat Grass Seeds
Cat Grass Tabby grows best in bright light indoors, such as near a sunny window or under a grow light, and outdoors in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained potting mix or garden soil and does not tolerate heavy, constantly wet soil. Indoors, place containers on a tray or saucer to catch excess water and situate them where airflow and light are good. Outdoors, choose containers or garden beds with reliable drainage to prevent waterlogging and mold issues.
How to Plant Cat Grass Seeds
After soaking seeds for 6 to 12 hours, plant them ⅛ to ¼ inch deep and lightly cover with soil. (Seeds need light to germinate.) It can help to place your seed tray inside a polythene bag, maintaining the ideal temperatures between 65°F to 75°F until after germination with sprouts typically appearing in 14 to 21 days. When growing for cat grass, seeds are usually broadcast thickly so the soil surface is well covered, producing dense, tender blades for grazing. For ornamental use, seeds can be sown more thinly and seedlings later thinned to one to two inches apart to allow for fuller, upright growth.
How to Care for Cat Grass
After planting, keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy, as excess moisture can lead to mold or root problems. Bottom-watering is especially helpful indoors, since it keeps foliage cleaner and reduces surface moisture. Good airflow is important, particularly for indoor trays, and plants should not be left sitting in standing water. Fertilizer is not necessary when growing cat grass, as it is harvested young. For pet safety, always use clean, untreated growing media, avoid pesticides or chemically treated soils, and rinse seeds before planting if desired.
How to Harvest Cat Grass
Cat Grass Tabby is usually ready to harvest just six weeks after sowing, once blades reach about four to six inches tall. At this stage, the grass is tender and appealing for pets. Set the container out for supervised grazing as needed. Most plantings remain attractive for one to three weeks, depending on light, watering, and how heavily the grass is grazed, after which they are best replaced with a freshly sown batch. Later in the season, cut back any taller growth to promote fresh new re-growth.