Propagating catmint ‘Walker’s Low’ can be a rewarding and simple process. Since ‘Walker’s Low’ is a sterile hybrid, it cannot produce viable seeds for propagation. However, it can be easily propagated through cuttings, allowing you to create new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
To begin the propagation process, you will need a healthy ‘Walker’s Low’ plant from which to take cuttings. Select a stem that is about 4-6 inches long and free from any signs of disease or damage. It’s best to take cuttings in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to propagate ‘Walker’s Low’ catmint:
1. Prepare the materials: Gather a clean pair of gardening shears or pruners, a clean container filled with a well-draining potting mix, and a rooting hormone (optional, but can help improve rooting success).
2. Take the cutting: Make a clean, angled cut just below a leaf node on the selected stem. Remove any lower leaves, leaving only a few sets of leaves at the top. This will help reduce moisture loss and encourage root development.
3. Apply rooting hormone (optional): If desired, dip the base of the cutting in a rooting hormone powder or gel. This can help stimulate root growth and increase the chances of successful rooting.
4. Plant the cutting: Create a hole in the potting mix using a pencil or your finger, and gently insert the cutting into the hole. Firmly press the soil around the base of the cutting to ensure good contact between the stem and the soil.
5. Provide the right conditions: Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate cutting. Maintain a consistent temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) to promote root development.
6. Water and mist regularly: Keep the potting mix consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the cutting from the base, avoiding wetting the leaves. Misting the leaves with water a few times a day can help create a humid environment and prevent excessive moisture loss.
7. Be patient: Rooting can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks, so be patient and monitor the cutting regularly. Once roots have developed, you will notice new growth emerging from the top of the cutting.
8. Transplanting: Once the cutting has established a healthy root system, it can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the garden. Choose a well-draining location with full sun or partial shade for optimum growth.
To summarize the propagation process:
– Select a healthy stem from the ‘Walker’s Low’ catmint plant.
– Take a 4-6 inch cutting and remove lower leaves.
– Optional: Apply rooting hormone to the base of the cutting.
– Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
– Provide bright, indirect light and maintain a consistent temperature.
– Keep the potting mix consistently moist and mist the leaves regularly.
– Wait for roots to develop, which can take 2-6 weeks.
– Transplant the rooted cutting into a larger container or the garden.
By following these steps, you can easily propagate ‘Walker’s Low’ catmint and enjoy a beautiful, fragrant garden filled with this lovely perennial.
