Cat grass is a total must-have for indoor kitties. It’s especially important during the winter months when your furry friend can’t just pop outside for a quick snack. But if you’re growing it yourself, you might be wondering: how fast does this stuff actually grow? Here’s the lowdown on the natural growth cycle of cat grass.
How Fast Does Cat Grass Grow?
Ideally, your kitty should be munching on cat grass while it’s still fresh and tender. As the blades get older and taller, they can become woody and tough. When that happens, the edges can actually get sharp enough to cause little cuts—definitely something we want to avoid! You can keep things safe by trimming the grass back yourself, though your cat will usually handle the “pruning” for you by snacking on it. But how often do you need to start a new batch?
The great news is that you can sow cat grass seeds all year round; it’s not a seasonal thing. If you’re giving your cat a small patch at a time, I recommend starting a new batch every two to three weeks to keep a fresh supply coming. These seeds are pretty hardy, too—they’ll germinate at temperatures as low as 35°F to 40°F. So, if the weather is mild, you can even grow it out on the balcony.
Tips for Planting Your Cat Grass
You’ve got options when it comes to planting: you can grow cat grass in potting soil or even without soil using hydroponic methods. The big secret is getting the water right. You want to keep the seeds nice and moist, but make sure they aren’t sitting in a puddle. If they stay too soggy, they’ll get moldy, and the seeds won’t sprout. Plus, if mold grows on cat grass, it can spread to the whole plant and make your cat sick.
Here are some of the best varieties to try:
- Cyperus (Umbrella Papyrus)
- Sedges and true grasses
- Wheat, rye, or barley (often called “Wheatgrass”)
- Indoor bamboo
You’ll notice that all of these varieties grow incredibly fast. You won’t need much patience before you have a lush green treat ready for your cat! Just make sure to stay ahead of the game and plant your next batch before the current one dies out. If you ever find yourself in a pinch and need to buy pre-grown grass from a store, just double-check that it hasn’t been treated with any nasty pesticides or chemicals.
