nepeta

Nepeta needs to be watered 1 to 2 times a week, providing enough water to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water early in the day, so the foliage has time to dry off before nightfall. During especially hot, dry weather, water more frequently. In cooler climates, water less often, as the cooler temperatures limit the amount of water the plant needs. In general, 1 inch of water per week is adequate for Nepeta. Avoid overhead watering, as this can increase the incidence of fungal diseases. Make sure the soil drains well. If not, add compost or other organic material to improve drainage.

Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow' – commonly referred to as Catmint – thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of full sun each day. When grown in full sun, it grows more spreading, bushy and abundant with fragrant lavender blooms. This species cannot tolerate full shade, as it can become leggy and not bloom. Placement in partial sun is ideal, as direct afternoon sun can scorch the foliage.

Nepeta (Nepeta faassenii 'Cat's Meow') should be pruned annually in the late winter, early spring. Pruning should be done to maintain an attractive shape, remove spent flowers, and control the size of the plant. To prune, look for spindly, leggy branches and flower stalks that have produced their blooms for the season. Trim these back to a fifth of their original length with a pair of gardening shears. If the plant is in need of a major overhaul, reduce the size of the plant by severely pruning up to 1-half of the length of the stems. Additionally, any dead or dying branches should be removed at any time during the year.