How To Transplant Catmint

If your catmint is outgrowing its spot or you simply want to move it, learning how to transplant catmint is a simple garden task. This easy step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring your fragrant perennial thrives in its new home.

Catmint, or Nepeta, is a tough plant known for its grey-green foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers. It’s a favorite for borders, pathways, and, of course, for cat enjoyment. While it’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, moving it requires a bit of know-how to avoid shock. The good news is, with the right timing and technique, transplant success is very high.

This main process covers everything from choosing the right day to aftercare. Following these steps methodically is the key to a stress-free move for both you and your plant.

When is the Best Time to Transplant Catmint?

Timing is the most critical factor for a successful move. Get this right, and your plant will recover quickly.

Early Spring or Early Fall: These are the absolute best times. The cool, moist weather allows the plant to establish roots without the stress of summer heat.
Avoid Summer: Transplanting in hot, dry weather can severely shock or even kill the plant.
Overcast Days: Always aim for a cloudy, cooler day, or transplant in the late afternoon. This prevents the freshly moved plant from wilting under direct sun.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Gathering your tools beforehand makes the job smooth. You likely have most of these already.

A sharp spade or garden shovel
A garden fork (very useful for loosening roots)
Pruners or sharp scissors
A tarp or bucket for holding the root ball
Watering can or hose
Compost or aged manure
Mulch (like shredded bark or straw)

Step-by-Step Transplanting Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the New Planting Hole

Always dig the new hole before you lift the plant. This minimizes the time the roots are exposed.

Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
Dig a hole that is about twice as wide as you expect the root ball to be and just as deep.
Mix some compost into the soil you removed from the hole. This gives the plant a nutrient boost right away.

Step 2: Prepare the Catmint for Moving

Getting the plant ready is a crucial step that’s often overlooked.

Water Deeply: The day before transplanting, give the catmint a thorough watering. Well-hydrated plants handle stress much better.
Prune the Foliage: Cut the plant back by about one-third to one-half. This reduces moisture loss through the leaves and helps it focus energy on root regrowth.

Step 3: Dig Up the Plant Carefully

This is where you need to be gentle to preserve as many roots as possible.

Insert your spade into the soil in a circle around the plant, about 6-8 inches from the base.
Use the garden fork to gently loosen the soil and lift the root ball. Try to keep the root ball intact.
Lift the plant onto your tarp or into the bucket for easy transport to its new hole.

Step 4: Planting in the New Location

Now, settle your catmint into its new home.

Place the root ball in the center of the prepared hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil surface.
Backfill the hole with your soil-compost mixture, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Create a shallow basin around the base to help hold water.

Step 5: Water and Mulch Thoroughly

Initial aftercare is what seals the deal for successful establishment.

Water the plant deeply immediately after planting. Ensure the water soaks down to the root zone.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the stems. This retains moisture and regulates soil temperature.

Aftercare Tips for Your Transplanted Catmint

Your job isn’t quite done after planting. Consistent care for the first few weeks is essential.

Water Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) for the first 3-4 weeks. This encourages new roots to grow out into the surrounding soil.
Hold Off on Fertilizer: Don’t fertilize at transplant time. The compost is enough. You can apply a balanced fertilizer next spring.
Monitor for Wilting: Some wilting is normal for a day or two. If it persists, provide some temporary shade and ensure the soil is moist.
Avoid disturbing the plant or dividing it further for at least a full season so it can recover fully.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Even with the best care, you might encounter a minor issue. Here’s how to fix them.

Transplant Shock

Signs include significant wilting, yellowing leaves, or stalled growth. If you see this:

Ensure you’re watering deeply enough. The root ball can dry out faster than you think.
Provide temporary shade for a few days using a shade cloth or even an umbrella during the hottest part of the day.
Be patient. As long as the stems are still flexible, the plant is likely still alive and working on new roots.

Dividing Overgrown Catmint

Transplanting is a perfect time to divide a large, overgrown clump. It’s a great way to get more plants for free.

After lifting the plant, use two garden forks back-to-back to pry the clump apart, or use a sharp spade to cut it into sections.
Each division should have several healthy shoots and a good amount of roots.
Replant the divisions immediately, following the same planting steps. Water them well.

FAQ: Your Catmint Transplant Questions Answered

Can you transplant catmint in the summer?

It’s not recommended. The heat and dry conditions put immense stress on the plant. If you must, do it on a cool, cloudy evening, water excessively, and provide constant shade. Success is not guaranteed, so it’s better to wait for fall.

How often should you water after transplanting?

For the first week, check soil moisture daily. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. After the first week, you can gradually reduce frequency, aiming for deep watering once or twice a week, depending on your climate, until the plant is established.

Does catmint transplant easily?

Yes, catmint is generally considered a easy plant to transplant due to its hardy nature. The key factors are timing (cool weather), keeping the rootball intact, and providing good aftercare with consistent moisture.

Can I move a mature catmint plant?

You can, but larger, older plants have more extensive root systems and may experience more shock. Be prepared to dig a wider berth around the plant to get as many roots as possible. Pruning it back more aggressively (by half) can also help it cope with the move.

What is the best soil for transplanted catmint?

Catmint thrives in well-draining, average to sandy soil. It does not like heavy, wet clay. If your soil is poor, amending it with compost or grit at planting time is very beneficial for drainage and nutrients. Good drainage is one of the most important things for catmint health.

Transplanting catmint is a straightforward project that rejuvenates an overgrown plant or lets you redesign your garden. By choosing the right time, handling the roots with care, and providing attentive aftercare, you’ll ensure your catmint settles in quickly. Soon enough, it will be flourishing in its new location, providing beauty and fragrance for seasons to come. Remember, the effort you put in during the first few weeks makes all the difference for a healthy, blooming plant.