Troubleshooting
Tuberous Catmint problems — and how to fix them
Tuberous Catmint (Nepeta tuberosa) 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.
Tuber rot in wet or cold-wet winters
The primary risk, especially outside zones 8–10. In cooler, wetter climates, lift tubers after first frost, dry, and store frost-free over winter as with dahlias. Alternatively, grow in a raised gravel bed.
Failure to flower in too much shade or rich soil
Without full sun and lean soil, plants grow vegetatively with few or no flowers. Site exclusively in the sunniest, poorest-drained area of the garden.
Fungal crown disease in humid climates
Botryis and other fungal pathogens attack in high humidity or wet seasons. Improve drainage, increase plant spacing, and remove dead leaf material promptly in autumn.
Prevent tuberous catmint problems before they start
Most tuberous catmint issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Tuberous Catmint problems — FAQ
Why is my tuberous catmint tuber rot in wet or cold-wet winters?
The primary risk, especially outside zones 8–10. In cooler, wetter climates, lift tubers after first frost, dry, and store frost-free over winter as with dahlias. Alternatively, grow in a raised gravel bed.
Why is my tuberous catmint failure to flower in too much shade or rich soil?
Without full sun and lean soil, plants grow vegetatively with few or no flowers. Site exclusively in the sunniest, poorest-drained area of the garden.
Why is my tuberous catmint fungal crown disease in humid climates?
Botryis and other fungal pathogens attack in high humidity or wet seasons. Improve drainage, increase plant spacing, and remove dead leaf material promptly in autumn.