Mint is the first herb I ever saw growing in the ground. I was about ten and brushed up against it at the nursery where my mother was shopping for edging plants. I was shocked that a plant could smell so strong, and be so true to the aroma I most associated it with – candy canes and gum; both big winners in my book.
That chance encounter started my life long interest in herbs. I've kept many of the mints over the years, even making my own juleps by following the directions from an old recipe where it cautioned the would be mixologist to "muddle the leaves in the bottom of the glass".
Keeping Mint in the Garden
Most mints are hardy perennials that can be very invasive. Sending out feelers that root easily, mint will happily choke out anything else growing in the same plot with it. To curb its enthusiasm for expansion, keep mint varieties in a large pot or mesh bag that you have buried in the flowerbed, or enclose it with edging to a depth of five inches. Apply mulch to the bed or around the plot to discourage rooting.
Mint likes dappled shade and consistent moisture. Although I've read that it thrives in alkaline soil, I've found that it will be happy almost anywhere it doesn't dry out. Optimal conditions would be areas that are well drained but moist, receiving morning sun but at least partial shade in the afternoon heat.
Plant mints fifteen inches apart, and thin them regularly. If you want to keep multiple varieties, try to plant them in different beds to discourage cross pollination.
Growing Mint Indoors
I overwinter a bit of mint in a glass of water near a window that gets good morning sun. The sprigs root easily, and the plant thrives with an occasional drop of liquid fertilizer and frequent water changes. In March, I pot them along with my other starters.
Propagating Mint
Mint can also be grown from seed, stem or root cuttings. The problem usually isn't getting mint to thrive, it's keeping it contained.
Harvesting Mint
Harvest mint sprigs in spring before flowering. To extend the harvesting season, pinch back buds.
Uses for Mint
Mint makes a tea that's great for stomach upsets. It is a welcome ingredient in desserts and as a garnish. It can be added to bath water as a pick-me-up before an evening out, and is also one of the primary ingredients in the famous mint julep and mint jelly recipes. For a refreshing change, mint can be delicious with vegetables like peas and carrots, or included in a fruit salad.
5 comments:
My wife uses home grown mint in her garden salsa instead of cilantro. A little does a lot and it tastes awesome.
Thanks for the tip about mint in salsa. I've tried it, and it makes a real difference. The mint isn't strong, but it adds zip to the rest of the flavors.
I only used a little - a half teaspoon minced fine in two cups finished salsa - in my case, pico de gayo.
Sara
My son & I decided to start up some spearmint and basil in the garden this year. Both plants are thriving beautifully, but I noticed last month that each began the flowering stage. Though they are growing out of proportion and it doesn't look like they've lessened their growing ability, I am curious to know, nonetheless, what impact the flowering heads have to do with the plants (or, if it makes a difference, more specifically, herbal plants)? If anyone on this site has a clue based on educated, definitive knowledge, I would gladly read your commentary. Thanks, much!
--Penguini
Penguini - I read somewhere that it's better to stop them flowering, perhaps to keep them growing lots of leafs. I'm not sure though...
My question is tho - I have a wide pot that has no hole to drain at the bottom (used as a water feature originally). Would this be unsuitable for mint, as it would mean the soil does not drain well? In fact, would it be suitable for *any* type of plant??
Hope you can answer if you have the time, thanks :)
I have some mint in a pot on my balcony (I don't have a yard); now that it's turned cold, it's acting like it's dying....can I bring it inside to save it for next spring/summer??
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Share some ideas.