catmint and roses

Why Catmint and Roses Work So Well Together

Catmint (Nepeta) is loved by gardeners for its aromatic foliage, clouds of blue flowers, and natural resilience. When planted alongside roses, catmint acts as a decorative, living mulch, hiding bare stems and preventing weeds from sprouting. Catmint’s sprawling growth softens the rose bed, while its drought tolerance and pest-repellent qualities help keep roses healthy. In return, roses stand tall with their showy blooms rising above the misty hues of catmint.

Best Varieties of Catmint for Rose Gardens

Selecting the right catmint variety is key to achieving lush, harmonious borders. For compact borders or underplantings, Nepeta mussinii (Catmint) is a reliable favourite, forming dense mounds of silvery leaves and deep blue flower spikes. If you’re looking for cascading waves of blue, consider Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint), ideal for edging and layering in front of taller roses. For grand, architectural sweeps, Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint) is unmatched with its vigorous habit and abundant blooms.

Don’t overlook Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' (Catmint) for a neater, more compact option that still delivers a stunning haze of colour. All these varieties excel as companions to roses, thriving in the same sunny, free-draining positions and requiring minimal maintenance.

Choosing the Perfect Rose Companion

When pairing catmint and roses, opt for repeat-flowering varieties for extended interest throughout the seasons. Rose 'Desiree' is admired for its large, beautifully shaped blooms and strong disease resistance, making it a wonderful focal point above catmint drift. Whether you favour classic whites, soft pinks, or vibrant reds, the cool blue tones of catmint will enhance every rose, creating a tranquil yet lively border effect.

Planting and Care Tips

To achieve the best results with catmint and roses: - Plant catmint at the base of roses, allowing it to spill around stems. - Ensure both receive plenty of sunlight and good drainage. - Prune catmint after flowering to encourage fresh blooms and maintain shape. - Mulch annually and feed roses with a specialist fertiliser in spring. - Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep both plants thriving.

Create Your Dream Border

By combining catmint and roses, you can create a garden full of charm, fragrance, and life. Browse our range of garden-tested favourites like Nepeta mussinii (Catmint), Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint), Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint), Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' (Catmint), and Rose 'Desiree' to find your perfect planting partners. Bring classic style and effortless beauty to your New Zealand garden with this crowd-pleasing duo.