Nepeta Catmint
Nepeta or Catmint is a cottage garden favorite and can often be seen in
influential gardens that encapsulate this style. Grey/green leaves
form bushy plants and in spring plants flower to produce beautiful
purple blooms. Plants are often used to line paths as they exude a
lemony scent as you brush past them. You may also wish to plant a large
drift of Nepeta if you have cats as they will thoroughly enjoy it.
How
to grow
Nepeta is a very easy plant to grow and once
established plants will be tolerant of changing conditions. When you receive your plants you should move them in to their
final positions as soon as possible. If you cannot plant immediately,
ensure your plants are watered and keep them moist and in a cool and
bright space until planting is possible.
Position
A
position in Sun is ideal for Nepetas, although they will also grow in
slightly shaded spots. Nepetas make for excellent front of the border
plants and will also do well when planted in containers.
Soil
Nepetas
will grow in most soil and prefer a well-drained and fertile growing
medium. Ideally soil should be prepared in advance of planting by
enriching the intended area with plenty of organic matter, well-rotted
garden compost or multi-purpose compost will
be fine. At this point you may also wish to apply some general fertilizer , which will help
to promote strong and healthy plant growth.
Care
Watering is important for your new
plants and you should water well after planting to ensure they establish
and get the best start possible. Ensure plants receive regular
applications of fertilizer at intervals throughout
the growing season and you may also wish to add a mulch of well-rotted
garden compost, manure or multi-purpose compost in the spring each year
as this will help to encourage good growth, conserve water and keep
roots moist throughout summer. Remove fading flowers by hand or with
Ratcheting Pruners to encourage new blooms.
Top
tip
Plant Nepetas with other plants that flower in
complimentary shades of pinks and yellow. Roses, Achillea and Dianthus all make
excellent growing companions.
