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Garden catmint
A staple in many ornamental gardens, Nepeta × faassenii, commonly known as garden catmint or Faassen's catmint, is a perennial favorite for borders and edge plantings. It enchants onlookers with its soft, billowy foliage and a profusion of delicate blue flowers that grace the plant throughout the summer months.
We would like to provide some tips on how to plant and care for a Blue flowering rock plants. By following these tips, you can be sure to enjoy your Blue flowering rock plants for a long time.
To ensure optimal growth and flourishing, position this species where it will receive full sunlight. The plant thrives in a variety of soil conditions, but it is crucial that the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues. An area with average water availability is suitable, as it has moderate water needs and is drought-resistant. The ideal location would also provide space for its bushy spreading growth habit, allowing it to reach its ultimate height and spread without competition for resources.
Planting Nepeta × faassenii is straightforward and can be done throughout the growing season, though spring and autumn are ideal. Choose a location with full sun exposure to encourage optimal flowering. This species thrives in all well-drained soils. When planting, space the plants adequately apart to accommodate their bushy spreading growth habit. Water them regularly to establish a strong root system, especially during dry periods, despite their drought-resistant nature. To promote a denser habit and more vigorous growth, trim the plant lightly after the first flush of flowers has faded.
To encourage a denser habit and possibly a second bloom, it's beneficial to cut back Nepeta × faassenii after the first flowering. Once the initial blue blossoms begin to fade in July, shear the plant back by a third. This pruning can stimulate a new flush of leafy growth and a subsequent bloom, enhancing its bushy spreading growth habit. Additionally, at the onset of spring, remove any old, dead foliage to make way for fresh growth. Regular pruning also helps maintain the plant's size and shape.
For optimal growth, Nepeta × faassenii demands consistent moisture, particularly when temperatures climb. Despite its drought resistance, this plant benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry spells. It's best to water deeply at the base to encourage a strong root system, which in turn supports the plant's bushy spreading growth habit. Overhead watering should be avoided to maintain the foliage's attractive green, grey, and silver hues. As the plant matures, it becomes increasingly adept at managing water needs, requiring less frequent attention.
To ensure a profusion of vibrant blue flowers and lush foliage, fertilizing Nepeta × faassenii is essential. This species thrives when fertilized in early spring as new growth begins to emerge. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer, applied once at the onset of the growing season, will provide the necessary nutrients for sustained health and vigor. The application should be according to the manufacturer's instructions, and it is important to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowering.
Additionally, a mid-season top-up can be beneficial, especially if the plant appears lackluster or is not blooming as expected. The extra feed will invigorate the bushy, spreading habit of Nepeta × faassenii, supporting both its ornamental and growth needs throughout the active months.
An often-overlooked trait of Nepeta × faassenii is its ability to thrive in less fertile soils. This hardiness makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking resilience and beauty. The soft, grey-green foliage provides a serene backdrop that complements bolder colors in the garden. Additionally, this species is known for its extended blooming period, offering a cascade of lavender-blue flowers that can enhance any outdoor space with a touch of tranquility and charm.
To propagate Nepeta × faassenii effectively and sustain its health, division is recommended. This procedure stimulates robust growth and ensures the vitality of the plant. The optimal times for division are during the cooler periods of spring or autumn. Begin by carefully lifting the plant from the soil, then proceed to separate it into smaller sections, discarding any aged or non-vigorous portions. Replant the divisions promptly, ensuring they are spaced appropriately to accommodate the bushy spreading growth habit. This practice allows gardeners to expand their display of the striking blue blooms and silvery-green foliage characteristic of this species.
Nepeta × faassenii typically grows to a height ranging between 10 and 50 centimeters.
Nepeta × faassenii will reach a maximum spread of 10 centimeters to 50 centimeters at maturity.
Nepeta × faassenii can thrive in various soil types, provided that the soil is well-drained. Ensuring proper drainage is crucial for the optimal growth and development of this plant.
The optimal location for Nepeta × faassenii is in a sunny area. This plant thrives best when it receives ample sunlight for healthy growth and blooming.
The blossoms of Nepeta × faassenii display a delightful blue hue. This captivating color adds a touch of elegance to the plant's appearance during the flowering season.
Yes, Nepeta × faassenii is considered winter hardy. It can endure temperatures as low as -23.3°C to -20.1°C, falling within the range of USDA hardiness zone 6a. This indicates that Nepeta × faassenii can withstand cold winters, making it suitable for cultivation in regions with typical winter conditions.
Nepeta × faassenii is not an evergreen plant. It is a deciduous plant, meaning it sheds its leaves annually and produces new foliage in the following growing season.
Nepeta × faassenii demonstrates a relatively swift growth pattern, typically reaching its full height within a span of two to five years. This indicates that it is a moderately fast-growing plant, achieving its mature stature within a reasonable timeframe.
If we are proud of anything at Heijnen Plants, it is our plant packaging. We have developed our own unique way of packaging our 9x9 cm potted plants. After years of continued development and research, we managed to create packaging that allows plants to be delivered to your home undamaged and quickly through a parcel service. This makes us unique!
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If you have ordered large-sized plants or trees, we deliver them on sealed pallets and place them around your house or driveway. The pallets are sturdy and provide optimal protection for large-sized plants.
We deliver small or medium-sized plants in boxes. The size of the box depends on the size of the plant. We always make sure that the plant has enough space but still stands firmly in the box, so it cannot be damaged during transport.
Nepeta × faassenii, commonly known for its soft, lavender-blue blooms and aromatic foliage, is an exquisite addition to any garden. This perennial thrives in well-drained soil, offering a long season of delicate beauty with minimal care. Ideal for borders or as a fragrant ground cover, it graces any landscape with charm and ease.
