Texas hummingbird mint

Year-round

Texas hummingbird mint comes from New Mexico and western Texas, so Atlanta's humidity and red clay are a stretch for it. It can work if you give it very sharp drainage and full sun.

• Plant in full sun and raise the bed or add grit so water drains away from the roots.
• The source says it needs good drainage and can get mildew and rust, which are more likely in a humid climate.
• Skip rich soil and heavy watering once it is established.
• If it fades in a wet year, that is a poor fit for the site, not something you did wrong.

Keep the clump tidy and cut back spent stems so the front bed looks cared for and HOA-friendly.

Fall

Pink flower spikes show up in late summer and fall, so enjoy the bloom.

• Expect rose-pink spikes in late summer and fall.
• It self-seeds readily, so you may find seedlings nearby.
• Leave it in full sun with no extra feeding.

Winter

Wet winter soil is the main risk, so keep drainage in mind.

• The source says it needs protection and good drainage.
• Rated zones 5 to 9, so Atlanta cold is not the concern, wet soil is.

Spring

Spring is a good time to plant and to check that water is not pooling around the plant.

• Sow seed or plant in spring, in a spot that drains fast.
• Do not let clay hold water around the crown.
• Give it full sun.

Summer

Summer humidity is the hard part, so focus on airflow and dry feet.

• Water lightly and only when the soil is dry, since it is drought tolerant.
• Watch for powdery or downy mildew and rust on the leaves.
• Give plants room so air can move between them.