A Guide to Cat-Friendly Plants for Small Gardens
As a cat owner, you might be considering adding some plants to your small garden that will keep your feline friends entertained and happy. This guide provides a list of cat-friendly plants that are not only attractive but also safe and non-destructive for your cats. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you'll find these tips and plants useful!
Understanding Catnip and Companion Plants
If you're already familiar with catnip, you know that it is a favorite among cats due to its distinctive scent. Catnip, which is a type of mint, spreads quickly and can become invasive if not contained properly. To ensure it doesn't take over your garden, place it in containers or in areas with proper edging. Our catnip plant flowers throughout most of the summer, benefiting bees and butterflies while providing endless entertainment for our cats.
Other Cat-Friendly Herbs and Plants
While catnip is a favorite, there are many other herbs and plants that can attract your feline friends. Here are some options beyond catnip:
Mint
Mint is in the same family as catnip but has a milder effect. Your cat will enjoy the scent and taste of mint, although they might need to build up a tolerance over time. Experiment with different types of mint, such as peppermint, to see which one your cats prefer.
Creeping Thymes and Oregano
Creeping thymes and oregano are low-growing woody-stemmed herbs that can thrive in a small garden. These herb clumps can provide a pleasant fragrance and visual appeal while being safe and non-damaging for cats. Lamb's ears, which have a silvery appearance, are also a great addition to a cat-friendly garden.
Companion Plants
Some plants can be used as companion plants to keep your garden safe from various pests. For instance, valerian, which can have white or pink flowers, has a similar effect to catnip and can be a mild stimulant. Valerian is known to attract cats but also repels mice, making it a great plant to deter unwelcome visitors.
Popular Cat-Friendly Plants
Here are six popular cat-friendly plants that you can easily incorporate into your garden:
1. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)
Cat grass is an obvious choice since it's a natural source of nutrition for cats. Growing it at home can be more cost-effective and provide digestive benefits. You can buy seeds and grow cat grass yourself to ensure fresh, clean, and safe grass for your feline friends.
2. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)
Kitties love the smell of lemongrass, which can be a delightful addition to your garden. Growing lemongrass for yourself provides an opportunity to share some with your cats, providing them with a unique scent to play and munch on.
3. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip can be a hit with many cats. Some cats become extremely playful and excited by this plant. However, growing it in hanging baskets can help prevent unwanted neighborhood cats from destroying your plant. You can buy seeds or purchase live plants online.
4. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii)
Not only are the purple blooms of catmint beautiful, but they also attract numerous insects such as butterflies and bees. This plant can be both visually appealing and a source of fun for your cats. Growing it in your garden makes it easy for them to explore and play around.
5. Mint Family (Mentha spp.)
The mint family includes plants like peppermint, which not only attracts felines but also detains mice. Grow this plant to create a balanced environment that keeps your cats happy and reduces the likelihood of finding mousy gifts left on your doorstep.
6. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian has a similar effect to catnip and can act as a mild stimulant. Its white or pink flowers make it a beautiful addition to your garden. While it attracts cats, it also keeps away mice, making it an excellent choice for gardeners with both cat and rodent issues.
Conclusion
By incorporating a variety of cat-friendly plants into your small garden, you can provide both your cats and other garden inhabitants with a balanced and interesting environment. Choose safe, non-destructive plants and use proper containment methods to ensure that your garden remains an appealing and secure space for everyone.
For more detailed advice and additional cat-friendly plants, check out the DesignRulz. Remember, the location and climate of your garden play a crucial role in determining which plants will thrive.