As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that Nepeta faassenii, commonly known as catmint, is indeed a plant that tends to spread. This characteristic is a natural behavior of many Nepeta species, and it is important for gardeners to be aware of this when considering planting catmint in their gardens.
When I first encountered Nepeta faassenii in my own garden, I was immediately drawn to its beautiful lavender-blue flowers and aromatic foliage. However, I soon realized that this plant had a tendency to spread quite vigorously if left unchecked. This spreading habit can be attributed to the plant’s ability to produce underground rhizomes, which allow it to send out new shoots and expand its reach over time.
To keep Nepeta faassenii in check and prevent it from taking over your garden, some attention and maintenance are required. Here are a few strategies that I have found helpful:
1. Regular division: Catmint can be divided every few years to control its spread. Dig up the clump and carefully separate the rhizomes, discarding any excess growth. This not only helps control the plant’s spread but also promotes healthier growth and rejuvenates the plant.
2. Containment barriers: If you want to prevent Nepeta faassenii from spreading into unwanted areas, you can consider using physical barriers such as edging or root barriers. These can be installed around the plant’s perimeter to restrict its underground rhizomes from spreading beyond a certain point.
3. Pruning and shearing: Regular pruning and shearing of catmint can help control its spread. By cutting back the plant after it finishes blooming, you can remove excess growth and prevent it from setting seed, which can further contribute to its spread. Pruning also helps maintain a compact and tidy appearance.
4. Regular monitoring: Keeping a close eye on your catmint plants is crucial in controlling their spread. Regularly inspect the surrounding areas for any new shoots or rhizomes that may be venturing into unwanted spaces. By catching and removing these new growths early on, you can prevent the plant from establishing itself and spreading further.
5. Consider container planting: If you are concerned about the plant’s spreading tendencies, you may want to consider planting Nepeta faassenii in containers. This allows you to enjoy its beauty while containing its growth within a confined space. Just ensure the container has adequate drainage and provide regular maintenance to keep the plant healthy.
It is worth noting that while catmint can spread, it is not considered invasive in most areas. Its growth habit is generally well-behaved and manageable with regular monitoring and maintenance. Additionally, the spreading nature of Nepeta faassenii can also be seen as a desirable trait for filling in bare areas or creating a lush ground cover.
Nepeta faassenii, or catmint, does have a tendency to spread, thanks to its underground rhizomes. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can easily keep it in check and prevent it from taking over your garden. Regular division, containment barriers, pruning, monitoring, and container planting are effective strategies to control its spread and enjoy the beauty of catmint in your landscape.
