The Aromatics: Salvia, Mint, Bee Balm and Lavender

Salvia and catmint provide vibrant color in the spring garden

There’s nothing quite like the sages (Salvia) and catmints (Nepeta) for bushy, vibrant spires of rich purples and lavenders in late spring. Beebalm, lavender and agastache follow up, with the latter going right into fall. Aromatics are among the easiest and most trouble-free of all perennials to grow, in part due to their menthol-like aromas which keep many pests at bay.