Catmint Plant for Sale

Catmint plant for sale options abound for gardeners seeking drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly perennials. This guide covers the best varieties, where to buy healthy plants, and expert tips for growing thriving catmint in any garden setting.

Key Takeaways

• Catmint is low-maintenance: Once established, catmint plants require minimal watering and care, making them perfect for busy gardeners.
• Multiple varieties exist: From compact ‘Walker’s Low’ to tall ‘Six Hills Giant,’ there’s a catmint variety for every garden size and style.
• Pollinators love it: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds flock to catmint’s lavender-blue flowers throughout the growing season.
• Buy from reputable sources: Local nurseries, online plant retailers, and garden centers offer the healthiest catmint plant for sale options.
• Plant in full sun: Catmint thrives with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flowering performance.
• Deer and rabbit resistant: The aromatic foliage naturally deters common garden pests without chemicals.
• Easy to propagate: Divide mature plants in spring or take cuttings to expand your catmint collection for free.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What is the difference between catmint and catnip?

Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii and related ornamental species) is grown for its attractive flowers and tidy garden habit. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a weedy-looking plant grown specifically for its effect on cats. Both contain nepetalactone, but catnip has much higher concentrations.

When is the best time to plant catmint?

Spring and early fall are ideal planting times. Spring gives the plant a full growing season to establish. Fall planting works well in zones 6 and warmer, allowing root growth before winter. Avoid planting in summer heat or late fall in cold zones.

How often should I water established catmint?

Established catmint is very drought tolerant. Water deeply only during extended dry periods of two weeks or more without rain. In most climates, established plants need no supplemental watering except in extreme drought.

Why is my catmint flopping open in the middle?

Flopping is usually caused by too much shade, rich soil, overwatering, or over-fertilizing. Catmint prefers lean, dry conditions in full sun. Shear the plant back by half after the first bloom to encourage compact regrowth and prevent flopping.

Can I grow catmint in containers?

Yes, compact varieties like ‘Cat’s Pajamas,’ ‘Junior Walker,’ and ‘Cat’s Meow’ grow well in containers. Use a pot at least 12 inches wide with excellent drainage and a gritty potting mix. Water more frequently than in-ground plants and protect roots in winter in cold zones.

Why Gardeners Are Searching for Catmint Plant for Sale

If you have spent any time browsing garden centers or scrolling through plant websites lately, you have probably noticed a surge in popularity for catmint. This hardy perennial has become a staple in modern landscapes, and for good reason. Gardeners love catmint because it delivers months of color with very little fuss. The soft lavender-blue flowers bloom from late spring through fall, creating a haze of color that softens garden edges and fills gaps between larger shrubs.

When you start looking for a catmint plant for sale, you will quickly realize there are more choices than you might expect. Different varieties offer different heights, spreads, and bloom times. Some stay neat and compact, perfect for the front of a border. Others grow tall and billowy, ideal for the middle or back of a planting bed. Understanding these differences helps you pick the right plant for your specific spot. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you buy, plant, and enjoy catmint in your own yard.

Understanding Catmint: What Makes It Special

Catmint vs. Catnip: Clearing Up the Confusion

Many people use the terms catmint and catnip interchangeably, but they are not the same plant. Both belong to the genus Nepeta, but they have different growth habits and uses. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is the one that sends cats into a frenzy. It has a rangy, somewhat weedy appearance and white flowers. Catmint refers to the ornamental species and hybrids like Nepeta x faassenii and Nepeta racemosa. These plants have a tidier, more attractive form and showier flowers in shades of blue, purple, and pink.

If you are shopping for a catmint plant for sale for your garden beds, you want the ornamental types. They still attract cats, but the reaction is usually milder. The foliage contains nepetalactone, the compound that affects felines, but in lower concentrations than true catnip. Most gardeners find that cats may roll on the plants occasionally but do not destroy them. If you have neighborhood cats that frequent your yard, you might see some flattened foliage, but the plants bounce back quickly.

The Botanical Background

Catmint belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Like its relatives, it has square stems, opposite leaves, and a distinct fragrance when crushed. The leaves are gray-green and slightly fuzzy, which helps the plant conserve moisture in hot, dry conditions. This adaptation makes catmint exceptionally drought tolerant once established. The flowers appear in dense whorls along the stems, creating a spike-like effect that adds vertical interest to the garden.

Most ornamental catmints are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, with some varieties stretching into zone 9. They are herbaceous perennials, meaning they die back to the ground in winter and re-emerge from the roots in spring. This cycle makes them reliable performers year after year. When you invest in a catmint plant for sale, you are buying a plant that will return for many seasons with minimal input.

Top Catmint Varieties to Consider

Walker’s Low: The Garden Standard

‘Walker’s Low’ is arguably the most famous catmint variety, and it earned the Perennial Plant of the Year award in 2007. Despite the name, it is not particularly low-growing. It reaches 24 to 30 inches tall and wide, forming a broad mound of aromatic foliage topped with deep lavender-blue flowers. The name actually comes from the garden in Ireland where it was discovered, not its height. This variety blooms heavily in late spring to early summer, then reblooms sporadically through fall if you shear it back after the first flush.

When you see a catmint plant for sale labeled ‘Walker’s Low,’ you are getting a proven performer. It holds its shape well without flopping, a common issue with older varieties. The flowers are sterile, so the plant puts energy into blooming rather than setting seed. This means a longer, showier display for you. It works beautifully in cottage gardens, prairie plantings, and mixed borders. Pair it with roses, salvias, or ornamental grasses for a classic combination.

Cat’s Meow and Cat’s Pajamas: Compact Powerhouses

If you need a smaller catmint for the front of a border or a container, look at the newer Proven Winners introductions. ‘Cat’s Meow’ grows 17 to 20 inches tall and spreads 24 to 30 inches wide. It has a very dense, rounded habit that stays neat all season. The flowers are a vibrant sky blue, slightly lighter than ‘Walker’s Low.’ ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ is even more compact at 12 to 14 inches tall and 18 to 20 inches wide. It blooms earlier than most catmints, starting in late spring, and the flower spikes are held tightly above the foliage for a tidy look.

These compact varieties are excellent choices when you want the catmint look without the sprawl. They also work well in rock gardens, along pathways, or in patio pots. When browsing a catmint plant for sale online or at a nursery, these names indicate modern breeding for improved garden performance. They tend to be more expensive than older varieties because they are patented, but many gardeners find the improved habit worth the extra cost.

Six Hills Giant: For Bold Impact

On the other end of the spectrum, ‘Six Hills Giant’ makes a statement. This variety can reach 36 to 48 inches tall and wide under ideal conditions. It has larger leaves and longer flower spikes than the compact types. The color is a soft violet-blue. Because of its size, it can flop in rich soil or too much shade. Plant it in lean, well-drained soil and full sun to keep it upright. It is spectacular at the back of a border or massed on a slope.

If you have the space, ‘Six Hills Giant’ delivers dramatic impact. It is one of the oldest hybrids still widely sold, a testament to its durability. When searching for a catmint plant for sale, this variety often appears under its species name Nepeta x faassenii ‘Six Hills Giant.’ It pairs beautifully with tall perennials like coneflowers, bee balm, and switchgrass.

Junior Walker: The Best of Both Worlds

‘Junior Walker’ is a sport of ‘Walker’s Low’ that stays more compact, around 15 to 18 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide. It has the same intense flower color and long bloom time but fits into smaller spaces. This variety was discovered as a natural mutation and propagated for its improved habit. It retains all the toughness of its parent but with a neater profile. For many gardeners, this is the ideal catmint plant for sale because it balances flower power with garden manners.

Lesser-Known Gems: Pink and White Varieties

While blue and purple dominate the catmint world, there are lovely alternatives. ‘Pink Cat’ produces soft pink flowers on a compact 12 to 18 inch plant. ‘Snowflake’ offers pure white blooms on a similar frame. ‘Blue Prelude’ is an early bloomer with deep blue flowers on a 14 to 16 inch plant. These varieties add diversity to a catmint collection and work well in pastel-themed gardens. They are sometimes harder to find, so check specialty nurseries when looking for a catmint plant for sale in unusual colors.

Where to Buy Healthy Catmint Plants

Local Nurseries and Garden Centers

Buying locally has distinct advantages. You can inspect the plants before purchasing. Look for sturdy stems, healthy gray-green foliage without yellowing or brown spots, and a well-developed root system that holds the soil together but is not circling the pot excessively. Local nurseries often carry varieties suited to your specific climate. The staff can offer personalized advice based on local conditions. Plus, you avoid shipping stress and can plant immediately.

When visiting a nursery for a catmint plant for sale, go early in the season for the best selection. Spring shipments arrive in April and May in most regions. Ask the staff when their next delivery comes if the current stock looks picked over. Many independent nurseries grow their own perennials or source from regional growers, which means the plants are already acclimated to your area. This reduces transplant shock and increases success rates.

Online Plant Retailers

The internet has exploded with plant shipping options. Companies like Proven Winners, White Flower Farm, Bluestone Perennials, and Great Garden Plants ship healthy, well-rooted catmint plants directly to your door. Online retailers often have the widest selection, including the newest introductions that local stores may not yet carry. They typically ship at the proper planting time for your zone, which takes the guesswork out of timing.

When ordering a catmint plant for sale online, read reviews carefully. Look for companies with guarantees. Most reputable sellers offer a one-year guarantee on perennials. Check the pot size. Many online retailers sell in quart or gallon pots, which establish faster than small plugs. Be home to receive the box and unpack plants immediately. Water them if the soil is dry, and let them acclimate in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting.

Big Box Stores: Proceed with Caution

Home improvement chains and mass merchants often sell catmint plants at lower prices. The trade-off is variability in plant quality and care. These stores receive large shipments that may sit on hot concrete for days without proper watering. Plants can become stressed, root-bound, or diseased before you buy them. If you shop here, be selective. Choose the freshest-looking plants, ideally from a recent delivery. Avoid any with weeds growing in the pot, yellow leaves, or signs of pests.

That said, big box stores sometimes carry exclusive varieties from major breeders. If you want a specific Proven Winners catmint and your local nursery does not stock it, the chain store might be your only local option. Just inspect carefully. A discounted catmint plant for sale is not a bargain if it fails to thrive.

Plant Sales and Garden Clubs

Local plant sales, often hosted by master gardener groups, botanical gardens, or garden clubs, can be treasure troves. These sales typically feature divisions from members’ gardens, meaning the plants are proven performers in your exact climate. Prices are usually very reasonable. You also get the chance to talk to the gardener who grew the plant. They can tell you exactly how it behaves in local conditions.

Check community calendars, extension office websites, and social media groups for sale announcements. Spring is the prime season. Arrive early for the best selection. When you find a catmint plant for sale at these events, you are often getting a locally adapted strain that may outperform commercially grown plants.

Planting and Establishing Your Catmint

Choosing the Right Spot

Catmint demands full sun. This means at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily. Eight hours is even better. In hot southern climates, a little afternoon shade is tolerated, but flowering will decrease with each hour of shade lost. The plant also needs excellent drainage. Wet feet, especially in winter, will kill catmint faster than almost anything else. Heavy clay soil should be amended with coarse sand, fine gravel, or compost to improve drainage.

Consider the mature size of your chosen variety when spacing. ‘Walker’s Low’ needs 30 inches between plants. ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ can go 18 inches apart. Proper spacing allows air circulation, which prevents fungal issues. Plant catmint where you can enjoy the fragrance when you brush past it. Along a path, near a patio, or beside a garden bench are perfect locations. The aromatic foliage releases its scent with the slightest touch.

Soil Preparation

Catmint prefers lean soil. Rich, heavily fertilized soil produces lush, floppy growth with fewer flowers. If your soil is reasonably decent, you may not need to amend it at all. In very poor sandy soil, mix in some compost to help with moisture retention during establishment. In heavy clay, create a raised bed or mound the planting area to ensure drainage. A soil test is always a good idea if you are unsure. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.

When you bring home a catmint plant for sale, water it thoroughly while still in the pot. This makes removal easier and reduces root disturbance. Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot but no deeper. You want the plant to sit at the same level it was in the container, or very slightly higher to allow for settling. Loosen any circling roots gently with your fingers. Backfill with native soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

The Critical Establishment Period

The first growing season is when your catmint builds the root system that will sustain it for years. Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells, more often in extreme heat. The goal is to encourage roots to chase moisture downward. Frequent shallow watering creates shallow roots that cannot withstand drought. Mulch with an inch of shredded bark, pine straw, or gravel to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

Do not fertilize at planting time. The plant needs to focus on roots, not top growth. If growth seems weak by midsummer, a light application of balanced organic fertilizer is fine. But usually, catmint in decent soil needs no supplemental feeding. By late summer, reduce watering to help the plant harden off for winter. A catmint plant for sale that establishes well in its first year will reward you with decades of low-maintenance beauty.

Ongoing Care for Maximum Blooms

The Shearing Secret: How to Get Repeat Blooms

This is the single most important maintenance task for catmint. After the first heavy flush of flowers fades in early summer, shear the entire plant back by one-third to one-half. Use hedge shears or large scissors. This looks drastic, and remove the spent flower stems and the top layer of foliage. The plant will look a bit bare for a week, then push out fresh growth and a second wave of flowers.

Without shearing, catmint tends to get leggy and flop open in the center. The second bloom is often more prolific than the first because the plant is larger. You can repeat this process after the second flush if you want a third round of flowers in early fall. In cooler climates, two shearings are usually the max before frost. This technique works on all catmint varieties. When you buy a catmint plant for sale, plan on this mid-summer haircut for the best show.

Dividing: Renewal and Free Plants

Every three to four years, catmint clumps benefit from division. The center of the plant may become woody and less productive, with all the new growth on the outer edges. Spring is the ideal time, just as new shoots emerge. Dig up the entire clump. Use a sharp spade or knife to cut it into sections, each with healthy roots and several shoots. Discard the woody center. Replant the divisions at the same depth, water well, and mulch.

Division gives you free plants to expand your garden or share with friends. It also rejuvenates the original plant, restoring vigor and flower power. A mature catmint plant for sale at a nursery might cost $15 to $25. Dividing your own yields multiple plants for zero cost. Plus, divided plants establish faster than nursery pots because they already have a substantial root system.

Winter Care

Catmint is fully herbaceous. The top growth dies back completely after hard frost. You can cut the dead stems to the ground in late fall or leave them for winter interest and wildlife habitat. The dried flower heads catch snow beautifully and provide shelter for beneficial insects. In spring, cut back any remaining dead stems before new growth appears. In zones 3 and 4, a light mulch of straw or evergreen boughs after the ground freezes can help prevent frost heaving of newly planted specimens.

Do not apply heavy mulch or leaves directly on the crown over winter. This traps moisture and causes rot. Gravel mulch is ideal for catmint because it drains instantly and reflects heat. If you used organic mulch during the growing season, pull it back from the crown in late fall. A catmint plant for sale that survives its first winter is almost certainly there to stay.

Designing with Catmint: Garden Combinations That Work

Classic Pairings

Catmint’s soft blue flowers and gray-green foliage make it a versatile mixer. It bridges the gap between bold and delicate plants. The classic pairing is catmint with roses. The mounding habit hides the bare legs of rose bushes, and the blue flowers complement every rose color from white to deep red. Both plants want full sun and good drainage. The catmint’s fragrance may also help deter some rose pests.

Another timeless combination is catmint with salvias. Both have similar spikes of blue-purple flowers, but salvias tend to be more upright while catmint billows. Together they create a river of color. Add ornamental grasses like fountain grass or switchgrass for texture and movement. The fine grass blades contrast beautifully with catmint’s soft mounds. When planning your garden, think about where a catmint plant for sale will fit into these proven partnerships.

Pollinator Gardens

If you want to support bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, catmint is a must-have. The tubular flowers are perfectly shaped for long-tongued pollinators. Bloom time overlaps with many other pollinator favorites, creating a continuous nectar source. Plant catmint in drifts of three, five, or seven plants for maximum visual impact and pollinator attraction. Single plants get lost in the garden; masses create a destination.

Combine catmint with coneflowers, bee balm, black-eyed Susans, and native grasses for a prairie-style pollinator meadow. Include early bloomers like catmint ‘Blue Prelude’ and late bloomers like ‘Walker’s Low’ to extend the season. A catmint plant for sale added to a pollinator garden pays dividends in wildlife activity all summer long.

Edging and Pathways

Compact catmint varieties excel as edging plants. ‘Cat’s Pajamas,’ ‘Junior Walker,’ and ‘Blue Prelude’ stay low enough to define a bed without blocking views. Plant them 12 to 18 inches apart along a path. As they mature, they will knit together into a continuous low hedge. The fragrance released when ankles brush the foliage adds a sensory dimension to garden walks.

Catmint also softens hardscapes beautifully. Let it spill over a retaining wall or cascade from a raised bed. The billowy habit disguises hard edges. In a rock garden, tuck catmint between boulders where its roots can run cool and deep. The gray foliage echoes stone colors. When you see a catmint plant for sale in a small pot, imagine it spilling over a wall or lining a path in a year’s time.

Container Culture

Catmint grows well in containers, especially the compact varieties. Choose a pot at least 12 inches wide and deep with excellent drainage. Use a gritty potting mix designed for succulents or add perlite and coarse sand to regular potting soil. Container plants need more frequent watering than in-ground plants, but the same lean conditions apply. Do not use moisture-retentive crystals or heavy compost.

Fertilize container catmint once in spring with a slow-release balanced fertilizer. Shear after flowering just like in-ground plants. In cold zones, move pots to an unheated garage or bury them in the ground for winter. The roots are more exposed in containers. A catmint plant for sale destined for a pot gives you flexibility to move the color where you need it most.

Troubleshooting Common Catmint Problems

Flopping and Leggy Growth

This is the number one complaint about catmint. The causes are usually too much shade, too rich soil, too much water, or too much fertilizer. Catmint wants lean, dry, sunny conditions. If your plant flops, cut it back hard after the first bloom. Next season, reduce watering and stop fertilizing. If it is in shade, consider moving it to a sunnier spot in spring. Some varieties are naturally more upright. ‘Cat’s Meow’ and ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ were bred specifically to resist flopping.

When evaluating a catmint plant for sale, read the label for growth habit notes. Words like “compact,” “mounding,” and “upright” indicate better manners. “Spreading” or “billowy” suggests a looser habit that may need more space or support.

Powdery Mildew

In humid climates or crowded plantings, catmint can develop powdery mildew, a white fungal coating on leaves. It is rarely fatal but looks unsightly. Prevention is key. Space plants for air circulation. Water at the base, not overhead. Choose resistant varieties. ‘Walker’s Low’ and the Proven Winners series show good resistance. If mildew appears, remove affected leaves and improve air flow. A spray of neem oil or potassium bicarbonate can help if caught early.

Root Rot

This is the killer. Catmint cannot tolerate soggy soil, especially in winter. Symptoms include wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, and blackened roots. Once root rot sets in, the plant is usually a loss. Prevention is everything. Plant in well-drained soil. Amend clay heavily. Use gravel mulch. Do not irrigate established plants except in extreme drought. If you have heavy soil, consider planting catmint in a raised bed or mound. A catmint plant for sale planted in perfect drainage will outlive one in clay by years.

Pests: Rare but Possible

Catmint’s aromatic oils deter most insects. Aphids occasionally cluster on new growth in spring. A strong blast of water or insecticidal soap handles them. Spider mites can appear in hot, dry, dusty conditions. Regular overhead watering (in the morning so foliage dries) discourages them. Four-lined plant bugs may stipple leaves in early summer. The damage is cosmetic. Cats are the most common “pest,” rolling on and flattening plants. A low fence or chicken wire cage protects young plants until they are large enough to withstand feline attention.

Propagating Catmint: Multiply Your Investment

Division: The Easiest Method

As mentioned earlier, division is the simplest way to get more catmint plants. Do it in early spring. Dig the clump, cut into sections, replant. Each division should have at least three to five shoots and a good root mass. Water well and shade for a few days if the weather is hot. Divisions often bloom the same year. This method produces clones identical to the parent plant.

Stem Cuttings

Take softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer from non-flowering shoots. Cut 4 to 6 inch pieces just below a node. Strip lower leaves. Dip in rooting hormone (optional but helpful). Stick in a pot of moist perlite and peat or sand. Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place in bright indirect light. Roots form in two to three weeks. Pot up and grow on until fall planting. Cuttings are a great way to propagate a specific variety you love, especially if you only have one plant and don’t want to divide it yet.

Seed: For the Patient Gardener

Catmint grows easily from seed, but named varieties will not come true. Seedlings will vary in height, flower color, and habit. This can be fun if you want to experiment, but if you want a specific cultivar, buy plants or propagate vegetatively. Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after danger of frost. Press seeds into the surface; they need light to germinate. Keep moist. Germination takes 10 to 20 days. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.

Species catmint like Nepeta racemosa and Nepeta mussinii come relatively true from seed. Hybrids like ‘Walker’s Low’ do not. When you see a catmint plant for sale grown from seed, it is usually a species or a generic “catmint” rather than a named cultivar. These are fine plants, often cheaper, but less predictable.

Seasonal Catmint Care Calendar

Early Spring (March-April)

Cut back dead stems to the ground. Apply a thin layer of compost around the base if soil is poor. Divide overcrowded clumps. Plant new catmint plants for sale as soon as soil can be worked. Water new plantings regularly.

Late Spring (May-June)

First flush of flowers begins. Enjoy the show. Watch for aphids on new growth. Take cuttings if desired. Pinch back tips on young plants to encourage bushiness.

Early Summer (June-July)

First bloom peaks and fades. Shear plants back by half. Water deeply after shearing to support regrowth. This is the most important maintenance task of the year.

Midsummer (July-August)

Second flush of flowers appears. Continue deadheading spent spikes if you want a tidy look, or leave for wildlife. Monitor for spider mites in hot dry weather. Water only in extreme drought.

Late Summer (August-September)

Third flush possible on vigorous plants. Stop fertilizing. Reduce watering to harden off for winter. Collect seeds if desired (species only).

Fall (October-November)

Foliage may turn yellow after frost. Cut back to ground or leave for winter interest. Pull mulch away from crowns. Plant new catmint plant for sale in early fall in mild climates (zones 6-8).

Winter (December-February)

Dormant period. In cold zones, ensure crowns are not heaved by freeze-thaw cycles. Brush heavy snow off if it weighs down stems. Plan next year’s additions. Browse catalogs for new catmint plant for sale offerings.

Catmint Beyond the Garden: Uses and Lore

Herbal and Household Uses

While ornamental catmint is not typically used for tea or medicine like its cousin catnip, the leaves are edible and can be used as a mild minty garnish in salads or drinks. The dried flowers retain color well and can be used in potpourri or sachets. Some gardeners dry stems for winter bouquets. The essential oil has been studied for insect repellent properties, particularly against mosquitoes. A few crushed leaves rubbed on skin may offer brief protection.

Historically, Nepeta species were used in European herbal medicine for digestive issues, nervous conditions, and as a mild sedative. The genus name comes from Nepete, an ancient Etruscan city where the plant grew abundantly. Romans used it in cooking and medicine. When you grow catmint, you are growing a plant with thousands of years of human association.

Catmint in Folklore

Old lore says that if you plant catmint, cats will find it, but if you sow it from seed, they will leave it alone. The saying “If you set it, the cats will eat it. If you sow it, the cats won’t know it” reflects the stronger scent released when roots are disturbed during transplanting. Another belief held that chewing the root would make even the gentlest person fierce and quarrelsome. Conversely, the leaves were thought to promote calm. These contradictions mirror the plant’s dual nature: stimulating to cats, soothing to humans.

Buying Guide: What to Look for When Shopping

Reading Plant Labels

When you stand before a display of catmint plant for sale options, the label is your best tool. Look for the full botanical name: Nepeta followed by the species or hybrid name and the cultivar name in single quotes. Example: Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low.’ This ensures you get the exact plant you want. Check the hardiness zone. Confirm the mature height and spread match your space. Note the bloom time. Some varieties bloom earlier or later, which helps you plan a succession of color.

Pot Size Matters

Perennials are sold in various pot sizes. Quart pots (4.5 inches wide) are common for mail order. Gallon pots (6-7 inches wide) are standard at nurseries. Larger pots mean more established root systems and faster impact in the garden, but they cost more. Small plugs (2-3 inches) are economical for mass plantings but require more care and time to fill in. For a single specimen, a gallon pot is worth the extra money. For a drift of ten plants, quarts or plugs make financial sense.

Timing Your Purchase

Spring offers the widest selection. Nurseries stock up for the planting season. Fall is the second-best time, especially in zones 6 and warmer. Fall-planted perennials establish roots over winter and explode in spring. Summer purchases are fine if you can water diligently. Avoid buying in late fall in cold zones (3-5) unless you can plant immediately and mulch heavily. End-of-season clearance sales can yield bargains, but inspect plants carefully for stress.

Budget Considerations

A single catmint plant for sale ranges from $8 for a quart of a common variety to $25 or more for a gallon of a patented new introduction. Buying in bulk from online retailers often reduces the per-plant cost. Local plant sales offer the lowest prices, often $3 to $5 per division. Consider the long-term value. A $20 plant that lives 20 years and gets divided into 20 more plants costs pennies per plant per year. Catmint is one of the best returns on investment in the perennial world.

Conclusion: Why Every Garden Needs Catmint

After exploring the world of catmint, from the myriad varieties to the simple care routine, one thing becomes clear. This plant delivers exceptional value for minimal effort. Few perennials bloom as long, tolerate as much neglect, and support as many pollinators. Whether you choose the classic ‘Walker’s Low,’ the compact ‘Cat’s Pajamas,’ or the towering ‘Six Hills Giant,’ you are adding a plant that will perform reliably for decades.

The next time you see a catmint plant for sale, you will know exactly what to look for. You will understand the differences between varieties. You will know how to plant it, when to shear it, and how to divide it. You will have ideas for companions and design uses. Most importantly, you will have the confidence to make catmint a cornerstone of your garden. Start with one plant. Watch it thrive. Then divide it, share it, and fill your garden with the soft blue haze that makes summer gardens magical. Your bees will thank you. Your cats might thank you. And you will wonder how you ever gardened without it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is catmint invasive?

Ornamental catmint varieties are clump-forming and do not spread aggressively by runners. They may self-seed lightly in ideal conditions, but seedlings are easy to remove. Named cultivars are often sterile and produce no viable seed at all.

Will catmint survive winter in zone 4?

Yes, most catmint varieties are hardy to USDA zone 3 or 4. Provide good drainage and avoid heavy winter mulch on the crown. A light covering of evergreen boughs after the ground freezes can help prevent frost heaving of young plants.

Does catmint attract bees?

Absolutely. Catmint is one of the best perennials for attracting bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, and native solitary bees. The long bloom season provides a reliable nectar source from late spring through fall.

Can I eat catmint leaves?

The leaves are edible and have a mild minty flavor. They can be used as a garnish or in salads. However, ornamental catmint is not as flavorful as true culinary mints. Avoid eating plants treated with pesticides not labeled for edibles.

How do I keep cats from destroying my catmint?

Young plants are most vulnerable. Protect them with a cylinder of chicken wire or a low fence until they are large enough to withstand occasional rolling. Most established catmint plants recover quickly from cat damage.

What should I plant with catmint?

Excellent companions include roses, salvias, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, ornamental grasses, yarrow, and Russian sage. Catmint’s blue flowers and gray foliage complement almost any sunny border combination.