Quick summary
Spearmint ( Mentha spicata ) , a versatile and redolent herb , is a popular choice for gardens and culinary use . Its novel flavor and animate scent make it a best-loved factor in tea , desserts , andsavory dishes . If you ’re look to add this fragrant herbaceous plant to your garden , here ’s acomprehensive guideon how to plant spearmint .
Choosing the Right Location
Mentha spicata thrives in moist , well - drained soilwith plenty of sun . prefer a spot in your garden that receive at least six hours of sunlight per daylight . Avoid plant it in areas that are prone to waterlogging .
Preparing the Soil
Amend the grease withorganic matter , such as compost or manure , to improve its drain and richness . The ideal pH range for spearmint is between 6.5 and 7.5 . If your soil is acidulent , add limeto raise the pH layer .
Selecting Healthy Plants
Whenchoosing spearmint plants , count forhealthy specimenswith vigorous roots andlush foliage . Avoid works that show signs of disease or damage . you’re able to buy spearmint plants from nursery or initiate your own from cuttings or seeds .
Planting Spearmint
From Cuttings :
From germ :
Spacing and Depth
Whenplanting spearmint , space the plant 12 - 18 inch aside . Plant the cuttings or seedling 2 - 3inches deepin the soil .
Watering
Water spearmint plant regularly , especially during spicy , dry conditions . Allow the dirt todry slightlybetween waterings . Overwatering can take to antecedent rot .
Fertilizing
inseminate Mentha spicata plants with abalanced fertilizerevery few weeks during thegrowing season . Avoid overfertilizing , as this can burn the plants .
Mulching
Mulch aroundspearmint plantswith constituent matter , such as straw orshredded leaves . Mulching helps retain moisture , suppress weeds , and baffle land temperature .
Harvesting
Spearmint leaves can be harvest throughout thegrowing season . Cut the leaves at the base of the flora and use them fresh or dry . To dryspearmint leaves , propagate them on a baking weather sheet and put them in a warm , dry location .
Pest and Disease Control
Spearmint isgenerally resistantto pests and disease . However , it can occasionally be affected by aphids , spider mites , or powdery mold . Treat infestations withorganic pesticidesor insecticidal soap .
The Bottom Line: Embracing the Fragrance of Spearmint
Top Questions Asked
Q : Can Igrow spearmintin containers?A : Yes , Mentha spicata can be grow in containers . Choose a pot withdrainage holesand use a well - drain potting mix . Q : How often should I irrigate spearmint?A : Water spearmint plant regularly , especially during raging , dry weather condition . provide the soil todry slightlybetween waterings . Q : Can I usespearmint leavesto make tea?A : Yes , Mentha spicata leavescan be used to make a refreshing andinvigorating Camellia sinensis . extortionate the leave-taking inhot waterfor 5 - 10 minutes . Q : Isspearmint goodfor repelling insects?A : Yes , spearmint has worm - skanky properties . Planting spearmint around your home or garden can help keep pests aside . Q : Can Iplant spearmintin fond shade?A : Spearmint prefers full sun , but it cantolerate fond shade . However , the plant may be less rich in shaded area .
