Members of the catmint group solve many selection problems in high elevation gardens. Perhaps most important is the fact that deer do not like them and rarely eat them unless they are desperate, in late fall. Catmints can be planted right on the edge of roads or in roof dump zones, because they die to the ground in winter. In locations where a shrub is desired but would be crushed by snow, tall catmints fill the bill. Catmint also thrives in full sun or partial shade. it spreads rapidly and is easily divided in late fall.

Culturally, catmints require fertilization about twice a year with a good organic bloom fertilizer. Established plants need watering every two to three days, preferably by drip, soaker or light hand watering. (Overhead watering tends to flatten th e plants.)

Catmints are available in a variety of sizes. The tallest is Siberian Catmint which grows 3-4 feet tall. I looks like a shrub and is covered with spikes of bright blue flowers. These make long lasting cutflowers. With regular deadheading, Siberian catmint will bloom from now until September. This catmint is a native of Siberia and is hardy in the coldest micro-climates in this area. A new variety “Souvenir d’Andre Chaudron” is also available. It is shorter, stockier and has an even longer blooming season.

Nepeta faassennii and its many hybrids are also attractive perennials with mounding, soft ,blue-gray foliage which is attractive to cats. The plants begin to bloom in June and are covered with spikes of light blue flowers. The plants are best when sheared in July to remove dead stalks. They will rebloom quickly. Dropmore hybrid was developed in canada in 1932. it is moderately drought tolerant, grows 12-15 inches talla nd has a spreading habit. it is often used for borders. Six Hills Giant is another related hybrid that grows up to 3 feet tall with deep blue flower spikes.

Nepeta catarica is catnip. The lemony-minty scent of crushed leaves delight cats. It grows 2 feet tall with lavender-white flowers. it is usually planted for the enjoyment of cats in the herb garden instead of being used as a speciman perennial.