For many people, the smell of catnip does not have any special appeal, but for cats it is one of the greatest aromas.The plant grown in the garden magically attracts home and neighbor flies from the very first young leaves.This perennial gains our sympathy a little later.
It takes a while to discover that catnip is an ideal background plant. For other species, it is a neighbor not inclined to dominate. Perfect for complementing rebate arrangements, it is also great for contrasting combinations.
Such a versatile perennial should find a place in every garden.It adds lightness to dense groups of plants and reflects the color of the sky in the bed.However, different species and varieties of catnip can also have purple, pink or white flowers.This plant feels good both in a herb garden, as well as in a flower bed or in a balcony box.
Nectar-producing lip flowers are popular among bees, bumblebees and butterflies. The different varieties of catnip bloom from May to October, successfully attracting insects throughout summer and fall.Therefore, this perennial should also grow in a natural garden.
Dry ground is not a problem for many species of catnip, which thrive best in sunny and warm places. This makes them a valued partner for roses, enriching the colors of the rose bed with the purple-blue tones of flowers.
Different varieties can create contrasting combinations with yellow or harmonious groups in several shades of one color with sage, iris or asters.Low species, such as catnip Nepeta racemosa, grow up to 30 cm and form nice dense pillows.They are perfect for border borders, decorating the garden not only with flowers, but also with gray-green leaves throughout the season.
Higher varieties of large-leaved catnip or Faassen are the best for the rebate. Nepeta faassenia varieties, such as 'Walkers Low' and 'Six Hills Giant', are very popular and appreciated. The large-flowered catnip Nepeta grandiflora raises its impressive inflorescence panicles up to a height of 100 cm, which is why it is eagerly combined with ornamental grasses and bush roses.
Unlike species with gray leaves, green-leaved catnip, such as Nepeta subsessilis or Nepeta sibirica, like moist soil and cooler sites.
Catnips do not require any care.Only after the flowering period is it worth pruning the shoots to induce the plants to flower again. Problems are with cats. The animals attracted by the scent are able to strongly strain the catnip shoots. We will prevent damage by planting non-aromatic forms or with a different smell, such as the lemon-scented variety 'Odeur Citron', which cats ignore.
Catnip reproduction
Many species of catnip reproduce by self-seeding.Young plants appear unexpectedly in various places in the garden.We reproduce the perennial in a controlled manner by dividing it.
The best time for this treatment is the beginning of spring vegetation.During this period, the effects are the best because the plants lose little water evaporated by the leaves and the air temperature is not yet high.Under such conditions, perennials do not suffer from lack of moisture and can develop properly.
The catnip should be dug out of the ground, reaching deep enough with a spade to damage as few roots as possible.Use the spade blade to divide the root ball into several parts, depending on its size.Plant the pieces in a selected place and then water them.
