How to Care for Catmint

Grow catmint in well-draining soil exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Although the plant tolerates poor soil, add organic matter to the site before planting to enrich it with nutrients. Space multiple plants 12 to 18 inches apart.

Water the catmint immediately after planting and continue to irrigate new plantings one to two times a week for the first two months. Afterwards, water established plants once or twice every two weeks. Avoid over-watering the plant that causes root rot.

Spread 2 inches of organic mulch around the catmint plant soon after planting to retain soil moisture, keep the roots cool and deter weeds. Space mulch such as dried leaves, shredded bark mulch or wood chips 3 to 4 inches from the stem of the plant. Replenish the mulch whenever needed to maintain the depth year round.

Remove spent blooms on the plant to prolong flowering on the catmint plant. Cut back the catmint plant to two-thirds of its height when flowering reduces, preferably in mid to late July to encourage another round of blooms in end summer. Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease. Plants that are not cut back flop over and produce fewer blooms in the next bloom cycle.

Inspect catmint foliage, blooms and stems for fungal diseases, such as leaf spots and powdery mildew. Prune infected plant parts and remove clippings and plant debris from around the base of the plant. Remove the plant if the infection is severe to prevent its spread to other parts in your garden.