Mentha is native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. Mints occur mostly in shallow water or wet or moist soil. There are around 25 known species.
Leaves impart flavor to iced drinks, sauces, vegetables and lamb. The plants are vigorous and spreading. Prefers part shade to full sun. Start seed early indoors. Plants tolerate light frost; set outside early.
| Plant Types: | Herb, Interior Plant, Perennial |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 3 feet |
| Zones: | 3a to 7b |
| Special Features: | Deer resistant, Edible, Fragrant foliage, Invasive |
| Shape: | Spreading or horizontal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Nursery Select Miracid® Water Soluble Plant Food |
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Very easily propagated via runners, or sow seeds in spring in containers in a cold frame. Can also propagate by division in spring or fall, or from rip cuttings in spring or summer. Plant different types far apart to avoid cross-pollination.
Edible parts are the leaves and flowers. Harvest the leaves and flower tops when the plants start to flower. After cutting them off, hang them upside down to dry, or spread them over a shallow tray. When the stems become brittle, it is time to remove the leaves and flowers. Store in airtight containers. Fresh leaves can also be frozen for preservation. Freezing retains the bright leaf color.
Aromatic, rhizomatous perennials. Some species are annuals. Mints generally do well full sun to partial shade. They have underground stems that help them spread rapidly. They can be rather weedy and should be controlled. The best way to control mint is to grow in containers. M. aquatica can be grown in containers submerged in up to 6" deep water, and is often used to stabilize the muddy edges of a pool. Mints grow well in an herb or vegetable garden. M. pulegium makes a nice low groundcover. M. requienii works well in a moist, shady rock garden. Mints have culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses. They are often implemented in herbal teas and potpourri.
Although mints do have flowers, they are grown for the flavor and smells of their leaves and stems. Blooms bell-shaped flowers in summer. Remove the flowers as they appear and pinch back the stems to promote bushier growth.
Although they can grow pretty much anywhere, they do best in light, moist, and medium-rich soils that are slightly acidic.
Some species are invasive. Prevent spread of roots by planting species in deep containers. Plunge plants into the soil, leaving just 1" of the rim above the soil. Can also restrict growth by growing plants in confined beds. M. aquatica can be grown in containers submerged in up to 6" deep water.
Make sure to remove any weeds or grass around mint plants. Best to divide mint plants every few years. Also cut mint to the ground in fall.
Prone to powdery mildew, anthracnose, leaf spot, stem canker, and rust. Affected by aphids, spider mites, flea beetles, root borers, cutworms, and root weevils. Planting mint in containers will prevent against soil-borne diseases. Rid of aphids and spider mites that appear by spraying the undersides of the mint leaves with a garden hose.