Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting Outdoors: For direct sowing, prepare a seed bed outdoors from April onwards. Sow thinly in rows approximately 15cm apart. Cover lightly with soil and keep the area consistently moist. Once seedlings are easy to handle, thin them or transplant them to stand about 30cm apart.
Starting Indoors (Under Glass): For an earlier flowering period, sow thinly in trays or pots with good quality seed compost from January. Lightly cover the seeds with compost. Cover the containers with polythene, glass, or a propagator lid. Maintain moisture but avoid waterlogging, and keep at a consistent temperature of around 68°F (20°C) for 2-4 weeks. Once seedlings appear, remove the covers and transplant them into small pots when they are manageable. Harden them off in a cool environment before planting outside at 30cm intervals once all danger of frost has passed.
Soil and Light: The Nepeta Cataria prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is versatile and will thrive in either full sun or partial shade.
Hardiness: This plant is fully hardy and can be left outdoors year-round in most climates.
Care: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooms. Due to its attractiveness to cats, consider planting in a location where its interaction with pets is manageable, or use protective barriers if necessary.