| Catnip/[mint] |
| Catnip and Catmint love full sun but can grow in partially shaded areas. Both can be planted as companions to lavenders, although Nepeta is the more accessible option as lavenders can be tricky to establish in the garden. They prefer rich, well-draining soils, although they can grow in various soil types. They make ideal companion plantings, but be mindful of their invasive ability to overrun and overtake if left unmanaged. They are part of the mint family, after all. Whilst they are not as aggressive as some mints, it still helps to watch. They do grow very well in containers as an alternative to direct-to-soil plantings. Catnip is a plant that cats go wild over, so if you plant it as a distraction to other sensitive plantings, always remember the space around the plant itself or use it as an edging plant rather than a central herb. Nepetalactone, the oil in catnip, gives the plant its scent, which certain felines are attracted to, thinking it’s a member of the opposite sex, yet it can also be used to deter stinging mosquitoes. Rub a few leaves onto your skin, and it will act as a natural garden protector for you. Catnip repels pests in gardens, such as aphids, ants, beetles, squash bugs, cockroaches, and certain rodents, like mice. Equally, it attracts beneficial insects, such as pollinators such as bees, butterflies, bumblebees, and parasitic wasp species. You can also plant it alongside potato, squash, cauliflower, beets, broccoli, tomatoes, and carrots. Also, like other mints, Catnip/mint will return year after year. |
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