Catmint Nepeta 'Poseidon'

Water

Catmint, which is the common name for Nepeta 'Poseidon', should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to promote healthy root growth. During hot, dry periods, the watering frequency may increase to twice per week. Typically, you should provide about 1 inch of water (approximately 0.6 gallons) each time you water. Avoid overhead watering to prevent issues with mildew, and instead, water at the base of the plant. In the fall, reduce watering to help the plant harden off before winter.

Light

Catmint thrives in full sun conditions, which means it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun can be ideal in hotter climates. If planted in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer blooms.

Temperature

Catmint prefers a temperate range with ideal growth occurring between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a hardy plant that can withstand a frost and can continue to grow in regions where winter temperatures do not drop below -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning catmint is important to maintain a tidy appearance, encourage bushier growth, and promote continuous blooming. Lightly prune or pinch back the tips of the plant in early spring to stimulate branching. After the first flush of flowers begins to fade, cut back the plant by approximately one-third to encourage a second blooming period. The best time to prune extensively is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Catmint (Nepeta 'Poseidon') is well-draining with plenty of organic matter and a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture containing garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite would be ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Catmint (Nepeta 'Poseidon') typically does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its container, which is evident when roots start to crowd.

Humidity & Misting

Catmint (Nepeta 'Poseidon') is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels. It thrives in average ambient humidity and does not require any special humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and occasional watering for indoor Catmint.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil; water as needed. Trim back.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Nepeta 'Poseidon', commonly known as 'Poseidon' catmint or catnip, begins its life cycle when its seed germinates, usually in early spring, given appropriate conditions of soil warmth and moisture. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a vegetative state with characteristic grey-green foliage and a spreading habit. As the plant matures, it enters a phase of rapid growth, during which it establishes a strong root system and full foliage. The flowering stage follows, typically in late spring to early summer, when 'Poseidon' catmint produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies. After pollination, the plant may produce seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals, allowing for the potential colonization of new areas. Finally, as a perennial, after the flowering season ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy in the winter, only to regrow from its rootstock with the arrival of the next favorable growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating Nepeta 'Poseidon', commonly known as 'Poseidon' Catmint, is by softwood cuttings. Typically, this is done in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing and the new growth is mature enough to hold its form but still tender. Cut a stem about 3 to 5 inches long, just below a leaf node, removing the lower leaves to create a clean stem for insertion into a growing medium. Dipping the cut end into rooting hormone can enhance the chance of successful rooting. The prepared cutting should be placed in moistened soil or a mixture of peat and perlite to provide a balance of moisture retention and aeration. Place the pot in a warm, well-lit area but out of direct sunlight to avoid drying out too quickly. Keep the soil consistently moist until the cutting roots, which typically takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted and begins to show new growth, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.