Home Gardening How to Grow Mint: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Harvesting

How to Grow Mint: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Harvesting

by Gregory
3 minutes read

How to Grow Mint: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in cooking, tea, and even for medicinal purposes. It’s also relatively easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.

Planting Mint

  • Mint prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
  • It can be grown in the ground or in pots. If planting in the ground, space plants 12-18 inches apart.
  • Mint can also be grown from cuttings or by dividing existing plants.

Growing Mint in Pots

  • Mint is a vigorous grower, so it’s best to grow it in pots to control its spread.
  • Use a soil-based compost and replant with fresh compost every couple of years.
  • Keep a couple of pots of mint by the kitchen door for easy access.

Caring for Mint

  • Water mint regularly, especially during hot weather.
  • Fertilize mint every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Cut back mint plants to just above soil level after flowering to encourage new growth.
  • Divide congested mint plants in autumn to make new plants.

Harvesting Mint

  • Mint can be harvested as soon as leaves appear in spring and continue through to the first frosts.
  • Nipping out the tips of the stems will encourage the plants to bush out.

Using Mint

  • Mint can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes.
  • Add fresh mint to salads, smoothies, and desserts.
  • Steep mint leaves in hot water to make a refreshing tea.
  • Use mint to make sauces, dips, and marinades.

Storing Mint

  • Freezing mint is the next best thing to using it fresh. Finely chop mint leaves and fill an ice-cube tray with the chopped mint. When frozen, pop the cubes into freezer bags and seal.

Pests and Diseases

  • Mint is attractive to pests such as aphids and flea beetles.
  • Check plants regularly for pests and diseases and treat as necessary.

Buying Mint Plants

  • There are many different varieties of mint plants available. Choose a variety based on what you intend to use the leaves for.
  • Mint is widely available from garden centers and online retailers.

Conclusion

Growing mint is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by gardeners of all levels. With a little care and attention, you can grow healthy mint plants that will provide you with fresh herbs for years to come.

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