Read by Matilda Longbottom

The other fall I planted a new bulb bed, leaving plenty of space between bulbs for it to spread. The next spring, I thought about all the empty space in that bed until it filled in. Hmmm, what to do?

Storm, my cat, loved catnip. We could both enjoy this bed! In went catnip seeds.

The bulbs put forth vigorous shoots, and up came the catnip. When it was about four inches high, Storm discovered it. He sniffed and wallowed and chewed with great joy. He was so cute!

The next day four of his friends came over to smell, relish, and roll in it. Had I made a mistake?

The third day all the cats from miles around came to savor the delicacy. They gyrated on it. They devoured it.

The fourth day the only thing left alive in the bed was Storm sniffing sadly. What had happened to his treat—and my bulbs?

Never again will I plant catnip in my garden, only in pots placed a long way from other plants.

And other cats. ❖