Catmint

Catmint: A Valuable Plant for Cats and Gardeners Alike

Catmint, also known as Nepeta, is part of the Lamiaceae family. It’s often confused with catnip (Nepeta cataria), but they are different plants. Catmint is well-known for its aromatic leaves and pretty, spiky flowers which come in shades of blue, violet, pink, or white. This perennial plant is easy to grow and maintain, making it a favorite among gardeners.

What is Catmint?

Catmint has a rich history. Historically, it was used in traditional medicine. The plant contains nepetalactone, an essential oil known for its effect on cats. However, it’s milder than the compound found in catnip. This makes catmint less likely to drive cats wild but will still attract them to the garden.

Benefits of Growing Catmint

Catmint serves several purposes in the garden. It’s drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it a versatile addition to any landscape. Its long blooming season and low maintenance make it popular.

• Attracts Pollinators: Catmint attracts bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem.
• Promotes Healthy Soil: Being part of the mint family, its roots help to aerate the soil, improving soil health.
• Low Maintenance: It requires minimal watering and pruning, ideal for busy gardeners.

How to Grow Catmint

Catmint is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. When planting, space the plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow room for growth. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

Once established, catmint is drought-tolerant. Water it during prolonged dry periods, but it generally thrives with occasional watering. Prune the plants back after the first bloom to encourage a second wave of flowers.

• Soil: Well-drained soil, not overly rich.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: Occasional watering after establishment.
• Pruning: After the first bloom to encourage a second flowering.

Uses of Catmint

Aside from its ornamental value, catmint can be used in a variety of ways. The leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in cooking or herbal teas. It’s also known for its medicinal properties, including its use as a mild sedative.

• Ornamental: Adds aesthetic beauty to gardens.
• Culinary: Leaves can be used in salads, soups, and teas.
• Medicinal: Used traditionally as a mild sedative and to treat minor ailments.

Catmint vs Catnip

While catmint and catnip are related, they have distinct differences. Catnip has a much stronger effect on cats due to higher nepetalactone content. This makes them more likely to become excited or even hyperactive around catnip. Catmint, on the other hand, provides a milder attraction, making it a gentler option.

The physical appearance also varies. Catnip has larger, coarser leaves compared to the finer, more delicate foliage of catmint. The flowers of catmint are usually showier, making them a preferred choice for ornamental gardens.

Common Varieties of Catmint

Several varieties of catmint are popular among gardeners. Each has its own unique characteristics, but all share common traits that make them easy to grow and maintain.

• Walker’s Low: Compact with prolific violet-blue flowers.
• Six Hills Giant: Larger variety, ideal for borders with abundant blue flowers.
• Faassen’s Nepeta: Sterile hybrid, ensuring it won’t self-seed excessively.

Pests and Problems

Catmint is generally pest-resistant, but it can occasionally suffer from common garden issues. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can sometimes infest the plants. Regularly inspect the foliage and use appropriate treatments if needed. Powdery mildew can affect plants in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk.

• Aphids: Small sap-sucking insects, can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
• Spider Mites: Microscopic pests, often managed with miticides.
• Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
• Powdery Mildew: Fungus, prevented by proper spacing and air circulation.

Propagation Methods

There are several ways to propagate catmint. The easiest and most common method is division. This is best done in early spring or fall. Simply lift the plant out of the ground, divide the root ball into sections, and replant them.

Cuttings can also be taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.

• Division: Best in spring or fall; divide root ball and replant.
• Cuttings: Taken from non-flowering shoots; use rooting hormone.

The Impact of Catmint on Cats

Cats may react to catmint, although the effect is usually less intense than with catnip. It’s safe for cats and can provide stimulation and enrichment. Some cats may rub against, chew, or roll on the plant. It’s a great way to create a cat-friendly garden space.

Be mindful, not all cats are affected by catnip or catmint. The sensitivity is hereditary, with about 70-80% of cats reacting to these plants. If you want to test your cat’s reaction, introduce them to catmint and observe their behavior.

• Stimulation: Provides enrichment and entertainment for cats.
• Safe: Non-toxic and harmless to cats.
• Variable Reactions: Not all cats are affected; sensitivity is genetic.

Catmint in Landscaping

Catmint is versatile in landscaping. It can be used as a ground cover, in borders, or as a companion plant. Its long blooming season and ease of care make it valuable in garden design. Combine catmint with plants like roses, alliums, and echinacea for stunning visual effects. Its soft, billowy appearance complements these plants, adding texture and color to the landscape.

• Ground Cover: Ideal choice for filling spaces.
• Borders: Defines garden edges with continuous blooms.
• Companion Planting: Pairs well with various perennials.

Aromatic Properties

Catmint’s aromatic properties aren’t just appealing to cats. The scent can be a natural insect repellent, deterring pests like mosquitoes. This makes it a functional plant for outdoor living spaces. Additionally, its scent can be calming and pleasant for gardeners, enhancing the overall garden experience.

• Insect Repellent: Deters mosquitoes and other pests.
• Aromatic Benefits: Pleasant, calming scent for humans.

Environmental Impact

Catmint contributes positively to the environment. It supports biodiversity by attracting pollinators. Its minimal water and fertilizer requirements make it an eco-friendly choice. The plant’s resilience reduces the need for chemical interventions, promoting a healthier garden ecosystem.

• Supports Biodiversity: Attracts and supports pollinators.
• Eco-Friendly: Low water and fertilizer needs.
• Resilient: Reduces need for chemical treatments.