Troubleshooting
Nepeta 'Walker's Low' problems — and how to fix them
Nepeta 'Walker's Low' (Nepeta × faassenii 'Walker's Low') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Flopping and splaying
Common after the first flush or in rich soil; shear the plant back hard by half to trigger fresh, compact regrowth and a second bloom.
Cats rolling and crushing it
The aroma attracts cats that flatten the clump; site away from cat traffic or protect young plants.
Crown rot in wet soil
Waterlogged, heavy ground rots the crown; ensure sharp drainage and avoid winter wet.
Reduced rebloom
Without a midseason cutback flowering tails off; shearing spent stems renews the display.
Prevent nepeta 'walker's low' problems before they start
Most nepeta 'walker's low' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for nepeta 'walker's low' in general rather than its problems? Read the full nepeta 'walker's low' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Nepeta 'Walker's Low' problems — FAQ
Why is my nepeta 'walker's low' flopping and splaying?
Common after the first flush or in rich soil; shear the plant back hard by half to trigger fresh, compact regrowth and a second bloom.
Why is my nepeta 'walker's low' cats rolling and crushing it?
The aroma attracts cats that flatten the clump; site away from cat traffic or protect young plants.
Why is my nepeta 'walker's low' crown rot in wet soil?
Waterlogged, heavy ground rots the crown; ensure sharp drainage and avoid winter wet.
Why is my nepeta 'walker's low' reduced rebloom?
Without a midseason cutback flowering tails off; shearing spent stems renews the display.