Grow spearmint at home! It's that easy
What's the story
Mint, mint, spearmint! This zesty herb is a fan favorite for its invigorating flavor and aroma.
It's a go-to for spicing up dishes, brewing tasty teas, or even just adding a fresh garnish.
Growing your own spearmint at home is super rewarding and brings that extra zing to your kitchen garden.
Ready to become a mint-growing master? Here are five key tips for raising healthy and thriving spearmint plants.
Location
Select the right spot
Spearmint loves well-drained soil and a sunny to partially shaded spot.
Selecting the perfect location is key. Choose a spot that gets a minimum of four to six hours of sun each day.
If you are planting it in a pot, just make sure the pot is kept at a place on your balcony or windowsill that gets a lot of sun.
Irrigation
Water wisely
Spearmint loves a good drink, but hold off on creating a mini swamp! Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Just water it when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
During hot summer months, your spearmint might get thirstier, so you may need to water it more often.
But always check the soil before you pour - if it feels damp, your plant is probably hydrated enough.
Nutrition
Fertilize with care
Spearmint isn't a heavy feeder when it comes to fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season will do the trick.
Be careful not to over-fertilize; it can damage the plant and actually weaken the flavor you're aiming for.
If you prefer organic, compost tea is a great way to give your mint the nutrients it needs without resorting to chemicals.
Maintenance
Prune regularly
Regular pruning not only keeps it shapely but also stimulates bushier, more robust leaf growth, which is crucial for harvesting.
Nip those flower buds in the bud, so to speak! It helps maintain that primo leaf quality and taste you're after.
Giving it a good trim - like cutting back a third or so of growth every couple weeks - keeps your spearmint nice and bushy, not to mention productive!
Collection
Harvest thoughtfully
Leaves are best harvested in the morning when their oil content (which gives them their flavor and aroma) is at its peak.
Use scissors or your fingers to gently remove leaves or stems as needed.
Avoid stripping an entire section bare; this gives the plant time to recover and regrow before your next harvest.