Catmint Plants for Sale Near Me

Catmint plants for sale near me searches connect gardeners with local nurseries offering healthy Nepeta varieties. This guide covers everything from choosing the right cultivar to planting and care tips for thriving, pollinator-friendly perennials.

If you have ever typed catmint plants for sale near me into a search bar, you are not alone. Gardeners everywhere are discovering the charm of this tough, beautiful perennial. Catmint, known botanically as Nepeta, brings months of soft color, incredible fragrance, and nonstop pollinator action to the garden. Best of all, it asks for very little in return.

Finding the right plants locally makes a huge difference. Local nurseries stock varieties that perform well in your specific climate. The staff knows your soil, your frost dates, and your summer heat. They can steer you toward the best cultivars for your spot. This guide walks you through everything you need to know. From picking the perfect variety to planting, care, and where to shop, consider this your complete catmint companion.

Key Takeaways

• Local nurseries offer climate-adapted plants: Plants from nearby growers are already acclimated to your growing zone and seasonal conditions.
• Multiple catmint varieties suit different needs: From compact ‘Walker’s Low’ to tall ‘Six Hills Giant,’ there is a Nepeta for every garden space.
• Spring and fall are ideal planting times: Cool temperatures reduce transplant shock and give roots time to establish before extreme weather.
• Catmint attracts beneficial pollinators: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds flock to the lavender-blue flower spikes all season long.
• Low maintenance once established: Drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and rarely bothered by pests, catmint thrives with minimal care.
• Proper spacing prevents disease: Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart for good air circulation and reduced fungal issues.
• Shearing after first bloom encourages rebloom: Cut plants back by half after the initial flush to promote a second wave of flowers.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

When is the best time to plant catmint?

Spring and fall are ideal for planting catmint. Cool temperatures reduce transplant shock and give roots time to establish before summer heat or winter cold.

How far apart should I space catmint plants?

Space catmint 18 to 36 inches apart depending on the variety. ‘Walker’s Low’ needs 24 to 30 inches, while ‘Six Hills Giant’ needs 36 inches for good air circulation.

Does catmint come back every year?

Yes, catmint is a hardy perennial in zones 3 to 8. It dies back in winter and returns from the roots each spring, often living for many years with occasional division.

Should I deadhead catmint?

Shear the entire plant back by half after the first bloom fades in early summer. This promotes fresh foliage and a second heavy bloom cycle rather than deadheading individual flowers.

Will catmint attract cats to my garden?

Catmint contains nepetalactone which attracts some cats, but it is far less potent than true catnip (Nepeta cataria). Most ornamental catmint varieties cause only mild interest from felines.

Why Catmint Deserves a Spot in Your Garden

Long Blooming Season

Catmint starts flowering in late spring. In many regions, it keeps going until the first hard frost. That is four to five months of color from a single plant. The flowers are small but abundant. They form dense spikes in shades of lavender, blue, pink, or white. Even when not in bloom, the gray-green foliage looks tidy and attractive.

Pollinator Magnet

Bees adore catmint. Honeybees, bumblebees, and native solitary bees all visit daily. Butterflies flutter from spike to spike. Hummingbirds dart in for nectar. If you want a garden buzzing with life, plant catmint. It is one of the single best perennials for supporting pollinators.

Deer and Rabbit Resistant

The aromatic foliage contains oils that mammals dislike. Deer and rabbits almost always leave it alone. This makes catmint a reliable choice for unfenced gardens. You get beauty without the heartbreak of munched plants.

Drought Tolerant Once Established

After the first growing season, catmint handles dry spells with ease. Its deep roots seek out moisture. This makes it perfect for water-wise gardens, hellstrips, and areas far from the hose. Less watering means less work for you.

Versatile Design Uses

Use catmint as a border edging, a mass planting, or a filler between roses. It softens hard edges along paths. It spills beautifully over walls. Taller varieties anchor the middle of a border. Compact types thrive in containers. The silvery foliage pairs well with almost any color scheme.

Popular Catmint Varieties to Look For

Nepeta x faassenii ‘Walker’s Low’

Despite the name, this is not a low creeper. It forms a mounded clump 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. It was named Perennial Plant of the Year in 2007. The lavender-blue flowers are prolific. It blooms from May to September with a quick shear in midsummer. This is the most widely available variety. You will find it at almost any nursery when searching for catmint plants for sale near me.

Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’

This is a larger, more vigorous cultivar. It reaches 36 inches tall and wide. The flower spikes are longer and the color is a deeper violet-blue. It makes a bold statement in the middle or back of a border. Give it room to spread. It is one of the oldest hybrids, dating back to the 1930s, and remains a favorite for good reason.

Nepeta racemosa ‘Little Titch’

Need something small? ‘Little Titch’ stays a neat 8 to 10 inches tall. It spreads slowly to about 15 inches wide. The flowers are a soft blue. This dwarf variety is perfect for rock gardens, troughs, and the front of the border. It also works well in containers. Do not confuse it with catnip (Nepeta cataria). This is ornamental, not the feline favorite.

Nepeta ‘Cat’s Pajamas’

A newer introduction from Proven Winners. It forms a dense, rounded mound 12 to 14 inches tall. The flowers are a rich indigo blue. It blooms earlier than most varieties, starting in late spring. The habit is exceptionally tidy. No flopping, no bare centers. It is a great choice for small spaces and patio pots.

Nepeta subsessilis ‘Prelude Blue’

This species tolerates more moisture than other catmints. It likes slightly richer soil and can handle part shade. The flowers are large for a catmint, a clear true blue. It grows 24 to 30 inches tall. If your garden has damp spots or afternoon shade, this is the one to try.

Pink and White Varieties

Not everything has to be blue. ‘Pink Cat’ offers soft pink spikes on a compact 18-inch plant. ‘Snowflake’ and ‘White Wonder’ bring pure white flowers. These add variety to a catmint collection. They pair beautifully with the blue types for a cool-toned tapestry.

Where to Find Catmint Plants for Sale Near Me

Independent Garden Centers

Your best bet for quality and expertise. Independent nurseries grow or source plants suited to your region. Staff are usually passionate gardeners themselves. They can answer specific questions about your soil, sun exposure, and design goals. Prices may be slightly higher than big boxes, but the plants are often larger, healthier, and better hardened off.

Big Box Store Garden Centers

Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart carry catmint in spring. Selection is usually limited to ‘Walker’s Low’ and maybe one other variety. Plants are mass-produced and shipped long distances. They may be root-bound or stressed. Check for white, healthy roots before buying. Shop early in the season for the best pick.

Local Plant Sales and Farmers Markets

Master Gardener groups, botanical gardens, and garden clubs hold spring plant sales. These are gold mines for unusual varieties. Plants are often divisions from local gardens, so you know they thrive in your area. Prices are usually very reasonable. Arrive early for the best selection.

Mail-Order and Online Nurseries

If local options are limited, reputable online nurseries ship healthy plants. Look for companies that ship in pots, not bare root, for perennials. Read reviews carefully. Good sources include Bluestone Perennials, White Flower Farm, and Proven Winners direct. Factor in shipping costs. Order early to avoid the spring rush.

Neighborhood Plant Swaps

Check Nextdoor, Facebook community groups, or local gardening forums. Gardeners often divide catmint in spring and share extras. You get free plants and local knowledge. It is also a great way to meet fellow plant people. Bring a pot and some of your own divisions to trade.

How to Choose Healthy Plants at the Nursery

Inspect the Foliage

Look for clean, gray-green leaves. Avoid plants with yellowing, brown spots, or holes. Some minor insect nibbling is normal. Heavy damage or disease signs are not. Powdery mildew shows as white dust on leaves. Pass on those plants.

Check the Roots

Gently tip the pot and slide the plant out slightly. Roots should be white or light tan, firm, and fill the pot without circling tightly. A few roots emerging from drainage holes are fine. A solid mat of roots means the plant is root-bound. It will recover but takes longer to establish.

Look for Buds, Not Just Flowers

A plant in full bloom looks pretty but may be past its peak. Choose plants with plenty of tight buds. They will bloom longer in your garden. If only flowering plants are available, shear them back by a third when you plant. This redirects energy to roots.

Read the Label

Labels should list the botanical name, cultivar, mature size, hardiness zone, and sun requirements. If the label just says “Catmint,” ask staff for details. Knowing the exact variety helps you site it correctly. Mature size is crucial for spacing.

Ask About Hardening Off

Plants grown in greenhouses need gradual exposure to outdoor conditions. Ask if the plants have been hardened off. If not, you will need to do it yourself over 7 to 10 days. Set them in shade, then increase sun exposure daily. This prevents sunscald and shock.

Planting Catmint for Success

When to Plant

Spring and fall are ideal. Spring planting gives a full growing season to establish. Fall planting lets roots grow in cool soil before winter. Avoid planting in summer heat. If you must plant in summer, provide shade and water daily for the first two weeks.

Choosing the Right Spot

Catmint needs full sun. That means at least six hours of direct sun daily. In very hot climates, afternoon shade is appreciated. Soil must drain well. Catmint rots in wet clay. If your soil is heavy, amend with compost and coarse sand or plant in a raised bed.

Soil Preparation

Loosen soil to 12 inches deep. Mix in 2 to 3 inches of compost. This improves drainage and adds nutrients. Catmint does not need rich soil. Too much fertility causes floppy growth. A balanced, lean soil produces the strongest stems and best flowers.

Spacing Guidelines

Space plants according to mature width. ‘Walker’s Low’ needs 24 to 30 inches. ‘Little Titch’ needs 12 to 15 inches. ‘Six Hills Giant’ needs 36 inches. Proper spacing allows air flow. This prevents fungal diseases. It also lets each plant show its natural form.

Planting Steps

1. Water the plant in its pot an hour before planting.
2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, same depth.
3. Remove plant from pot. Loosen circling roots gently.
4. Place in hole. Top of root ball should be level with soil.
5. Backfill with native soil mixed with compost.
6. Firm soil gently. Do not compact.
7. Water thoroughly to settle soil.
8. Apply 2 inches of mulch. Keep mulch off the crown.

Container Planting

Choose a pot at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes. Use a quality potting mix with added perlite. Do not use garden soil. Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot. Water well. Containers dry faster. Check daily in heat. Fertilize monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Watering

Water regularly the first season. Aim for 1 inch per week including rain. Once established, water only during extended drought. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep roots. Overwatering causes more problems than underwatering. Feel the soil 2 inches down. If dry, water.

Fertilizing

Catmint rarely needs fertilizer. A shovelful of compost around the base in spring is plenty. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. They promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers. If growth is weak or yellow, a light application of balanced organic fertilizer in early spring helps.

Deadheading and Shearing

After the first big flush fades, shear the whole plant back by half. Use hedge shears or large scissors. This looks drastic but works. Fresh foliage appears in days. A second bloom follows in weeks. In long-season areas, you may get a third flush. Stop shearing by early September to let plants harden off.

Dividing

Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years in early spring. Centers die out over time. Dig the whole plant. Use a sharp spade or knife to cut into sections. Each division needs roots and shoots. Replant immediately. Water well. Discard the woody center. Division rejuvenates the plant and gives you more plants.

Winter Care

In zones 4 to 8, catmint is fully hardy. Leave foliage standing over winter. It protects the crown and provides insect habitat. Cut back to 3 inches in early spring before new growth starts. In colder zones, add a light mulch of straw or leaves after the ground freezes. Remove in spring.

Design Ideas Using Catmint

Classic Rose Companion

Catmint hides the bare knees of rose bushes. The soft blue flowers complement every rose color. The aromatic foliage may deter some rose pests. Plant 18 inches from the rose base. ‘Walker’s Low’ is the classic choice. Shear catmint after its first bloom to keep it tidy under roses.

Pollinator Pathway

Plant a drift of catmint along a sunny path. Mix with coneflowers, bee balm, and salvia. The result is a highway for bees and butterflies. Choose varieties with staggered bloom times. ‘Walker’s Low’ starts early. ‘Six Hills Giant’ peaks mid-summer. ‘Prelude Blue’ extends the show.

Mediterranean Garden

Combine catmint with lavender, rosemary, thyme, and sage. All love sun, lean soil, and little water. The silvery foliage echoes beautifully. Add ornamental grasses like blue fescue for texture. This style fits modern, low-water landscapes perfectly.

Container Combinations

Use ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ or ‘Little Titch’ as the thriller or filler in a pot. Pair with trailing calibrachoa, upright angelonia, and silver dichondra. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Fertilize every two weeks. Overwinter pots in an unheated garage in cold zones.

Hellstrip Hero

The strip between sidewalk and street is brutal. Heat, salt, compaction, dog traffic. Catmint handles it all. Plant a mass of ‘Walker’s Low’ for a sea of blue. It softens the hardscape. It tolerates road salt better than most perennials. Check local regulations before planting.

Common Problems and Solutions

Flopping Stems

Catmint gets floppy in rich soil, too much shade, or too much water. The fix: shear back hard after first bloom. Stake early with grow-through supports. Move to a sunnier spot next spring. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing.

Powdery Mildew

White powdery coating on leaves. Caused by poor air circulation and humidity. Space plants properly. Water at the base, not overhead. Remove affected leaves. Spray with neem oil or potassium bicarbonate if severe. Choose resistant varieties like ‘Cat’s Pajamas’.

Root Rot

Plants wilt despite wet soil. Roots turn brown and mushy. Caused by poor drainage. Improve drainage before replanting. Amend heavy clay with compost and expanded shale. Plant in raised beds. Do not overwater.

Cat Damage

Neighborhood cats may roll on young plants. They love the scent. Protect new plants with chicken wire cages for a few weeks. Once established, catmint recovers quickly from cat naps. The oils that attract cats also repel deer and rabbits.

Self-Seeding

Some varieties self-sow modestly. ‘Walker’s Low’ is sterile, so no seedlings. Species types like Nepeta racemosa may seed. Deadhead before seeds form if you want to prevent volunteers. Seedlings are easy to pull or transplant.

Catmint vs. Catnip: Know the Difference

People confuse these two all the time. Both are Nepeta. Both attract cats. But they are different plants with different uses.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

This is the herb that sends cats into ecstasy. It grows 3 to 4 feet tall. The leaves are green, not gray. Flowers are white with purple spots, not showy. It spreads aggressively by seed. It looks weedy in a flower border. Grow it in an herb garden or a pot for your cat.

Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii and hybrids)

These are ornamental perennials. Foliage is aromatic but less potent for cats. Flowers are showy, in blues, pinks, whites. Habit is mounded and tidy. They do not spread aggressively. Most hybrids are sterile. These belong in the flower garden.

Can You Use Catmint for Tea?

Yes, catmint leaves make a pleasant minty tea. It is milder than catnip tea. Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor. Dry in a single layer out of direct sun. Store in airtight jars. Pregnant women should avoid large amounts of any Nepeta tea.

Buying Catmint: What to Expect Price-Wise

Quart Pots

Most common size at nurseries. Usually $8 to $14. Good root system. Establishes quickly. Best value for most gardeners.

Gallon Pots

Larger, more mature plants. $15 to $25. Instant impact. Good for filling a gap fast. Heavier to transport.

Plugs or Liners

Small starter plants, often sold in trays. $3 to $6 each. Cheapest way to plant a drift. Need a full season to reach size. Order from online nurseries in spring.

Seeds

Species types grow from seed. Hybrids do not come true. Seed packets $3 to $5. Start indoors 8 weeks before last frost. Transplant after danger of frost. Flowers first year from early sowing.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Early Spring (March to April)

• Cut back dead foliage to 3 inches.
• Apply compost around base.
• Divide overgrown clumps.
• Plant new purchases.

Late Spring (May to June)

• First bloom begins.
• Water new plantings regularly.
• Mulch if not done.
• Enjoy the pollinator show.

Midsummer (July)

• First flush fades.
• Shear plants back by half.
• Water deeply after shearing.
• Watch for second bloom buds.

Late Summer (August to September)

• Second bloom in full swing.
• Deadhead spent spikes if desired.
• Stop fertilizing.
• Reduce watering as weather cools.

Fall (October to November)

• Leave foliage standing.
• Plant new catmint in mild climates.
• Add winter mulch in cold zones after ground freezes.
• Clean up fallen leaves around plants.

Winter (December to February)

• Plants dormant.
• No care needed.
• Plan next year’s additions.
• Order plugs for spring if planting a large area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catmint

Is catmint invasive?

No. The popular hybrids like ‘Walker’s Low’ are sterile. They do not set seed. They spread slowly by clumping, not running. The species Nepeta cataria (catnip) can self-sow aggressively. Stick with named ornamental cultivars for the garden.

Does catmint really repel mosquitoes?

The oils in catmint foliage have some repellent properties. Nepetalactone, the active compound, is studied as a natural repellent. However, simply growing the plant does not create a mosquito-free zone. Crushing leaves and rubbing on skin offers temporary relief. Do not rely on it as your only protection.

Can catmint grow in shade?

It tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates. But flowering decreases significantly. Stems stretch and flop. Foliage loses its silvery color. For best results, give it at least 6 hours of sun. Nepeta subsessilis handles more shade than other types.

Why is my catmint not blooming?

Too much shade, too much fertilizer, or not enough maturity. Young plants may bloom lightly the first year. Established plants need full sun and lean soil. Shearing after the first bloom is essential for rebloom. Check that you are not overwatering.

Can I grow catmint indoors?

Not as a houseplant. It needs full sun, winter dormancy, and air circulation. It will get leggy, attract spider mites, and decline. Grow catnip in a pot on a sunny windowsill for your cat instead. Catmint belongs outside.

How long does catmint live?

With division every few years, indefinitely. Individual clumps last 3 to 5 years before the center dies out. Division resets the clock. Some gardeners have maintained the same genetic line for decades through regular division.

Conclusion

Searching for catmint plants for sale near me is the first step toward a more beautiful, buzzing, carefree garden. This remarkable perennial gives so much and asks for so little. Months of blooms. Clouds of pollinators. Deer resistance. Drought tolerance. Versatility in design. All from a plant that thrives on neglect once established.

Visit your local nursery this spring. Talk to the staff. Pick up a ‘Walker’s Low’ or a ‘Cat’s Pajamas.’ Plant it in a sunny spot with decent drainage. Water it well the first year. Then step back and watch the magic happen. The bees will thank you. The butterflies will thank you. Your neighbors will ask what that lovely blue plant is. And you will smile, knowing you made a smart, sustainable, beautiful choice.

Happy planting. Your catmint adventure starts now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between catmint and catnip?

Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii and hybrids) is an ornamental perennial with showy flowers and tidy mounded habits. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a weedy herb grown for its effect on cats. Catmint is sterile and non-invasive, while catnip self-sows aggressively.

Can catmint grow in containers?

Yes, compact varieties like ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ and ‘Little Titch’ thrive in containers. Use a pot at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes and quality potting mix. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and fertilize monthly during the growing season.

How do I propagate catmint?

Divide established clumps in early spring every 3 to 4 years. Dig the plant, cut into sections with roots and shoots using a sharp spade, and replant immediately. Stem cuttings taken in late spring also root easily in moist potting mix.

Why is my catmint flopping over?

Flopping is caused by too much shade, rich soil, overwatering, or over-fertilizing. Shear plants back by half after the first bloom to encourage sturdy regrowth. Ensure at least 6 hours of sun and avoid fertilizing established plants.

Is catmint deer resistant?

Yes, catmint is highly deer resistant. The aromatic foliage contains volatile oils that deer and rabbits find unpalatable. It is one of the most reliable perennials for gardens with heavy deer pressure.

Can I grow catmint from seed?

Species types like Nepeta racemosa grow true from seed. Named hybrids like ‘Walker’s Low’ are sterile and must be propagated vegetatively. Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before the last frost for first-year flowers.