Creating a Cottage Garden Charm with Nepeta Companions
Creating a Cottage Garden Look with Nepeta Companions
When it comes to creating a charming and picturesque cottage garden, incorporating Nepeta companions can add a touch of whimsy and elegance. Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, is a versatile perennial that can be used in various ways to enhance the beauty of your garden. Here are some creative ideas on how to use Nepeta companions to create that classic cottage garden look:
1. Mixing and Matching Nepeta Varieties
One of the key elements of a cottage garden is the mix of different plants that work together harmoniously. When using Nepeta companions, consider mixing different varieties of Nepeta to create a visually interesting and dynamic garden. Combine taller varieties like Nepeta 'Walker's Low' with shorter ones like Nepeta faassenii 'Six Hills Giant' for a layered look.
2. Planting Nepeta with Roses
Roses are quintessential cottage garden plants, and pairing them with Nepeta can create a lovely contrast of colors and textures. Plant Nepeta at the base of climbing roses or in between rose bushes to add a soft, billowy texture to the garden bed.
3. Creating Borders with Nepeta
Nepeta companions can be used to create beautiful borders along pathways or around garden beds. The low-growing habit of Nepeta makes it a perfect choice for edging, and its fragrant foliage will add a delightful scent to your garden. Try planting Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' or Nepeta racemosa 'Walker's Low' along the edge of your garden for a stunning effect.
4. Attracting Pollinators with Nepeta
Nepeta is known for attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden. By incorporating Nepeta companions into your cottage garden, you can create a haven for these important insects and help support biodiversity in your yard. Consider planting Nepeta next to other pollinator-friendly plants like lavender and salvia for a pollinator paradise.
5. Adding Vertical Interest with Nepeta
Incorporating climbing plants like clematis or morning glories with Nepeta can add vertical interest to your cottage garden. Train these climbers to grow up trellises or pergolas draped with Nepeta for a stunning display of colors and textures. The combination of the airy Nepeta flowers and the vibrant blooms of climbing plants will create a charming focal point in your garden.
By incorporating Nepeta companions into your cottage garden, you can create a beautiful and inviting space that is full of color, fragrance, and wildlife. Get creative with your planting combinations and experiment with different ways to use Nepeta to achieve that classic cottage garden look.
