Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The foliage... MSRP: Now: $129.73 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallons Nepeta 'Picture Purrfect' PP34502 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Catmint A new must-have for landscapers! 'Picture Purrfect' has a similar compact height to 'Kitten Around' but has a much broader... MSRP: Now: $116.12 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Chartreuse on the Loose' PPAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint 'Chartreuse on the Loose' is a perennial with season long interest perfect for lining the front of the border. The... MSRP: Now: $208.97 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallons Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (4) 1-gallonsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $121.46 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 (25) BR Plants Nepeta 'Cat's Pajamas' PP31127 CPBRAF (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint A purr-fect Catmint for fans of 'Cat's Meow' who love the look but want a smaller scale version. In addition to being a... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Walker's Low' (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (25) Bare Root Plantsa/k/a Catmint and Catnip The cultivar name is somewhat misleading, the plant is named for its garden of origin, not its growth habit... MSRP: Now: $201.84 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come! × OK
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' PP24788 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Like ‘Cat’s Meow’, this selection shares an improved tidy habit, though it is a... MSRP: Now: $209.05 Choose Options Compare Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come!
Nepeta Nepeta f. 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) BR Plants Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' PP24472 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Catmint, Catnip Truly the “cat’s meow”! Unlike most Nepetas that have a bit of a wild, unkempt look,... MSRP: Now: $224.84 Choose Options Compare Compare Selected Nepeta’s Zone, Characteristics and Use In The Landscape Nepeta, commonly known as catmint or catnip, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial herb that thrives in many climates. Here is a breakdown of its hardiness zone, characteristics, and how you can use it in your landscape: Plant Hardiness Zone Nepeta is a tough plant, surviving cold winters and hot summers. Most Nepeta varieties are cold hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) to twenty°F (-6°C). However, it is always best to check the specific variety you are interested in planting, as some may have slightly different hardiness ranges. Characteristics Appearance: Nepeta forms attractive clumps of aromatic, gray-green leaves with scalloped edges. They produce lavender-blue, pink, violet, or white flowers throughout the summer, often with darker calyces that enhance their color. Depending on the variety, Nepeta can reach heights of nine inches to three feet. Fragrance: The leaves of Nepeta have a strong minty scent that repels deer and rabbits. This scent is especially attractive to cats, hence the name "catnip." Sun and Soil: Nepeta prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. They are adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or shallow rocky soil. Uses in the Landscape Nepeta's versatility makes it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ideas on how to use it: Borders: Nepeta's compact to medium size and long bloom time make it a perfect choice for edging flower beds or lining walkways. Mass Planting: Planting Nepeta in large swaths creates a stunning display of color and fragrance. Rock Gardens: Nepeta's ability to thrive in drier conditions makes it well-suited for rock gardens. Containers: Nepeta can also be grown in containers and placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Additional Tips To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Nepeta is a low-maintenance plant, but it benefits from occasional division every few years to maintain its vigor. With its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and tolerance for various conditions, Nepeta is a great choice for gardeners of all levels. So, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds color, fragrance, and feline fun to your landscape, consider planting some Nepeta! Nepeta Care Guide: Spacing, Water, Sunlight, Soil, and More Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here is a detailed look at its needs for optimal growth: Spacing: Nepeta spacing depends on the specific variety you have. Generally, you can space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. However, dwarf varieties may only need 10-12 inches, while larger growing types might need up to twenty-four inches. Always check the plant label for specific recommendations for your variety. Water: Nepeta is quite drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering is important during the first growing season to help the roots develop. After that, established plants only need occasional watering during dry spells. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for Nepeta, so avoid soggy soil. Sunlight: Nepeta thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight is key to producing abundant flowers. However, in very hot climates with scorching afternoons, some light shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress on the plants. Soil Needs: Nepeta is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, or even shallow rocky soil. The key factor is good drainage. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter before planting can improve drainage and provide some nutrients. Nepeta does not require overly fertile soil and can even benefit from slightly dry conditions. Foliage Type: Nepeta has aromatic, gray-green foliage with scalloped edges. The leaves are attractive throughout the season and add a nice textural contrast to other plants in your garden. Growth Habit: Nepeta typically forms mounding clumps with upright or trailing stems depending on the variety. Some varieties are more compact and stay low to the ground, while others can reach heights of up to three feet. Care: Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms throughout the summer, deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Pruning: For a tidier appearance or to control leggy growth, you can prune Nepeta lightly in midsummer. Division: Every few years, you can divide Nepeta clumps to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Fertilizing: Nepeta generally does not require additional fertilizer, especially if your soil is average or fertile. Overfertilizing can lead to fewer flowers and floppier growth. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Nepeta thrives and brings beauty and fragrance to your garden for many seasons to come. Nepeta's Colorful Display: Flowers, Forms, Bloom Time, and Pollinator Paradise Nepeta, the lovely catmint, offers a charming display in your garden with its attractive flowers and long bloom time. Let us delve into the details of its floral characteristics and the pollinators it attracts: Flower Colors: Nepeta boasts a delightful range of flower colors, primarily in shades that attract pollinators. The most common color is lavender-blue, but you can also find varieties in pink, violet, and even white. Some Nepeta varieties even have bi-colored flowers with contrasting hues. Flower Forms: Nepeta flowers come in a single form: small, tubular blooms arranged in clusters or spikes at the tops of the stems. These clusters create a lovely cloud-like effect when blooming profusely. Bloom Time: Nepeta is a long-blooming perennial, gracing your garden with its flowers for a significant portion of the season. Generally, the bloom time starts in late spring or early summer and can extend into fall, depending on the variety and climate. Many Nepeta varieties will even produce a second flush of flowers if deadheaded regularly throughout the summer. Pollinators: Nepeta is a magnet for pollinators! The nectar-rich flowers and their attractive colors attract a variety of beneficial insects to your garden. These include: Bees: Bumblebees and honeybees love to feast on Nepeta's nectar. Butterflies: The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance are irresistible to butterflies, adding to the visual delight of your garden. Hummingbirds: Certain Nepeta varieties, particularly those with red or pink hues, can attract hummingbirds to your garden. By planting Nepeta, you are not only adding beauty to your landscape but also supporting the vital role of pollinators in your ecosystem. Nepeta’s Latin Name Pronunciation, Common Names and Botanical Names? Nepeta, the beloved catmint, has a rich history reflected in its various names. Here is a breakdown of its pronunciation, common names, and botanical names: Latin Name Pronunciation: There are two main pronunciations for the Latin name "Nepeta" depending on regional preference: British English: neh-PEE-tah (emphasis on the first syllable) American English: ni-PEE-tah (emphasis on the second syllable) Both pronunciations are considered acceptable. Common Names: Nepeta has a variety of common names that reflect its characteristics or uses: Catmint: This is the most widely used common name, likely due to the plant's strong attraction to cats. Catnip: Another popular name referencing the same feline fascination. Catnep: A variation of "catnip." Field Balm: Refers to the minty aroma of the leaves. Blue Balm: Highlights the typical flower color. Botanical Names: Nepeta is the genus name, referring to the entire group of catmint plants. Within the genus, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific botanical name following the genus name in italics. For example, Nepeta cataria is the botanical name for the most common catnip variety. Here are some additional Nepeta species with their common names: Nepeta mussinii - Korean Mint Nepeta x faassenii - Walker's Low Nepeta Nepeta grandiflora - Bigflower Catmint So, whether you call it Nepeta, catmint, or catnip, this versatile plant offers a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden. Nepeta’s Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta's Resilience: Critter, Pest, and Disease Resistance Nepeta is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to critters, pests, and diseases. Here is a breakdown of its resilience: Critter Resistance: Deer: Deer are not particularly fond of Nepeta due to its strong minty scent. In fact, Nepeta can be used as a natural deer repellent in your garden. Rabbits: Like deer, rabbits are usually deterred by the minty aroma of Nepeta. Pest Resistance: Nepeta is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few occasional issues: Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can sometimes infest Nepeta, particularly under stressful conditions. A strong spray of water can usually dislodge them. Insecticidal soap can be used for heavy infestations. Spittlebugs: These spittle-covered insects may appear on Nepeta stems. While they can look alarming, they are generally harmless and will not cause significant damage. If their numbers become excessive, you can physically remove them or use insecticidal soap. Disease Resistance: Nepeta is also disease-resistant. However, in very humid conditions or with poor drainage, fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur. Here are some tips to prevent fungal diseases: Provide good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants and ensure proper spacing. Water at the base of the plant: Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. Water deeply and infrequently: Overwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. By following these tips and choosing a well-draining planting location, you can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems with your Nepeta. Nepeta first year bare root planting help? Here is how to help your first-year bare root Nepeta (catmint) thrive: Planting: Timing: Ideally, plant your bare root Nepeta in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. However, if you are planting in July, choose a cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize heat stress. Location: Pick a spot with full sun to partial shade. Catmint prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Nepeta is adaptable to most soil types but thrives in well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand for better drainage. Planting process: Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and deeper than the root ball of your Nepeta. Gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they seem tightly packed. Place the Nepeta in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly above the soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Watering: Water your Nepeta regularly during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first growing season, Nepeta becomes quite drought tolerant and needs less frequent watering. Additional care: Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilizer: Nepeta generally does not require heavy feeding. A light application of compost in the fall or a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower heads just below where the flowers attach to the stem. Bonus Tip: You can lightly trim your Nepeta by about a third after the first flush of flowers to promote bushier growth and potentially a second round of blooms. By following these tips, your bare root Nepeta should establish itself well and reward you with beautiful fragrant flowers for years to come!