Growing aromatic peppermint in upcycled water bottles
What's the story
Growing your own peppermint at home is a sustainable and satisfying way to have fresh herbs at your fingertips.
This tutorial shows you how to use upcycled water bottles as planters, making this a truly eco-friendly gardening project.
In a few easy steps, you'll be able to grow your own fragrant peppermint, perfect for adding a fresh touch to your home and meals.
Bottle choice
Selecting the right bottle
Selecting the appropriate water bottle is key for this project. Transparent plastic bottles, with a capacity of one to two liters, work best.
Make sure the bottle is thoroughly clean and free of any labels or sticky residues before using it.
The clear nature of these bottles lets sunlight reach the roots, which is essential for fostering robust growth in your peppermint plants.
Planter prep
Preparing your planter
To get your bottle ready for planting, simply cut it in half with scissors or a sharp knife.
Pierce multiple drainage holes in the bottom half to allow for water drainage.
Fill this lower portion with a mixture of potting soil and compost, stopping about two inches from the top to leave room for planting.
Planting process
Planting your peppermint
You can plant either peppermint cuttings or seeds.
If you are using cuttings, make sure they have a minimum of two nodes. Insert them one inch into the soil, and then press softly around them to hold them in place.
If you are sowing seeds, spread them out evenly over the soil surface and then lightly cover them with a bit more soil.
Care tips
Caring for your peppermint
Peppermint likes to be kept moist but hates having wet feet.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Position your upcycled planter in a location that gets a minimum of six hours of sun each day.
Feed every four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.
Harvest time
Harvesting and enjoyment
Once your peppermint plant is well-established and showing strong growth (usually about eight weeks after planting), you can start harvesting leaves.
To promote a bushier plant, always harvest leaves from the top.
Using fresh peppermint leaves in teas, as garnishes, or to add a refreshing flavor to various dishes is perfect.
Not only will this elevate your culinary creations, but it also encourages further growth in your plant.