Catmint (Nepeta × faassenii) is a plant that can be grown in many different types of soil. It is also relatively easy to care for, requiring very little time and attention. It thrives in USDA cold hardiness zones 3 to 9. First cultivated by Faassen Nurseries who belongs to Tegelen in Netherlands, this plant has typical mint leaves and blue flowers.
What is catmint?
Catmint is a small, aromatic, herbaceous flowering plant that thrives in moist, cool conditions. It is native to North America and Europe but can also be found growing wild in areas of the country. Catmint is an easy plant to grow and care for, and it makes an interesting addition to any garden or pot.
Catmint plants can be grown from seed or purchased as plants. They prefer a moist, cool soil with plenty of fertilizer and water. Once established, catmint plants are low-maintenance and will not require much attention other than periodic weeding. The flowers are edible and add a pleasant scent to your garden or pot.
How to grow catmint?
Catmint is a favorite herb of many gardeners because it’s easy to grow and care for. This hardy perennial, which typically grows to be about two feet tall, can be found in many nurseries and can be grown in a variety of soils. Catmint prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It tolerates most climates, but will perform best in moderate temperatures and fertile soil.
To start growing catmint, choose a sunny spot in your garden and prepare the soil by broadcasting it with compost or manure. Plant catmint seeds directly into the prepared ground and water them thoroughly. Once the plants have germinated, thin out the seedlings to twelve inches apart. Mulch the plants with compost or leaves in early spring as they will start to produce flowers in late spring or early summer. Catmint should be harvested when the flowers are fading away to produce a delicious smelling herb.
How to care for catmint?
Catmint is a perennial herb that can be grown outdoors in USDA cold hardiness zones 3 to 9. It prefers full sun, but will tolerate partial shade. A well-drained soil is necessary, and catmint prefers acidic soils. Thin out the plant in early spring if it becomes dense. Catmint flowers from late fall to early winter, and produces sweet-smelling leaves all season long.
Soil, zones, and deadheading
Soil: Catmint prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Add peat moss or other organic matter for additional moisture and fertility. Avoid soils that are dry, rocky, or compacted. Zone: Catmint grows best in full sun or part shade in zones 8-10. Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to maintain shape and size.
Catmint cultivars
There are many cultivars of catmint, here are some well known ones:
Select Blue
Six Hills Giant
Little Titch
Faassen’s catmint
Walker’s Low
Blue Wonder