Catmint, specifically Nepeta cataria (commonly known as catnip), has a reputation for being invasive due to its ability to self-seed and spread rapidly. However, it’s important to note that not all species and cultivars of catmint are invasive. In fact, most of the catmint varieties sold in garden centers are well-behaved garden plants that do not pose a threat of becoming invasive.
I have personally worked with various catmint cultivars in my gardening and landscaping projects, and I have found them to be delightful additions to any garden. These cultivars are carefully selected and bred to exhibit certain desirable traits while minimizing invasiveness.
One of the reasons why some catmint varieties can be invasive is their ability to self-seed. This means that once the plants produce flowers and set seed, those seeds can scatter and germinate in other areas of the garden or even neighboring landscapes. However, the cultivars typically sold in garden centers have been bred to produce fewer seeds or have sterile flowers, reducing the likelihood of excessive self-seeding.
Moreover, many gardeners and landscapers prefer to deadhead catmint flowers before they have a chance to produce seeds. Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers, which not only helps prevent self-seeding but also encourages the plant to continue blooming throughout the season. By regularly deadheading catmint, you can effectively control its spread and maintain its well-behaved nature.
It’s worth mentioning that even though most catmint cultivars are not invasive, they are still vigorous growers. They can form dense clumps of foliage and send out runners, which, if left unchecked, can gradually expand the plant’s footprint in the garden. However, with regular maintenance and division, you can easily keep catmint in check and prevent it from becoming overly aggressive.
If you are concerned about the invasive potential of catmint, I would recommend opting for cultivars that are specifically labeled as non-invasive or sterile. These varieties have been carefully selected and bred to eliminate or reduce the traits associated with invasiveness while retaining the desirable characteristics of catmint, such as its aromatic foliage and attractive flowers.
While some species of catmint, like Nepeta cataria, can be invasive due to their self-seeding behavior, the majority of catmint cultivars sold in garden centers are well-behaved plants that do not pose a significant invasive threat. By selecting non-invasive or sterile varieties and practicing regular maintenance, such as deadheading and division, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of catmint in your garden without worrying about it taking over.
