Mint can be an exotic addition to your herb garden, or an invasive pest!

Mentha spp.

Mint is a spreading perennial it is generally grown for its aromatic leaves but can also be used for ornament. The tiny flowers of the mint plant grow in spikes of pink, white or purple. Plant height can reach 18 to 36 inches.

PLANT TYPE:

Plant Type: Hardy Perennial
GROWING ZONES:

USDA Growing Zones: Zones 3-9, depending on the species
SOIL TYPE:

Mint will successfully grow under a wide variety of conditions and soil types. Mint would prefer medium, well drained soil, 2.5 to 3% organic matter with a pH level of 6.5-8.0, but it will seize the opportunity where it finds it.
PROPAGATION:

Mint Propagation is most successfully accomplished by root division or rooting plant stem cuttings.
GROWING MINT FROM SEED CAN PRODUCE INCONSISTENT FRUSTRATING RESULTS:

Purchase Mint Plant seedlings or Mint plugs that are well identified from a reliable online supplier.
Plant Mint seedlings outdoors in full sun or partial shade, in moist, well-drained soil.
Planting can easily be done in spring or autumn. It's always good to add compost.
DRYING AND STORAGE

Mint leaves can be dried for winter use, but retain more and better flavor if chopped and frozen. Be sure to wash the mint under cold tap water and blot dry with a paper towel, thoroughly before drying mint.
THE VARIETY OF MINT PLANTS HAVE MANY USES, VARYING TASTES AND SCENTS:

Mint, like Peppermint, is common in many flavorings with diverse uses. Mint or peppermint leaves are commonly used in sauces and relishes, as well as with fruit and vegetables and in teas and drinks like the mint julep.
The mint plant from your herb garden, can be used medicinally to treat indigestion and colds.
The main constituent of Peppermint is menthol, which acts as an antibacterial.
When dissolved in alcohol, it may be used to combat ringworm.
Mint from the herb garden was an important aromatic herb in medieval times as well.
Water Mint were strewn in homes because its scent was stronger than Peppermint or Spearmint. It was also added to baths because of its fragrance.
Spearmint contains no menthol and so is used only for its fragrance. Peppermint can also be used to stimulate the liver and gallbladder, increasing the flow of bile and promoting digestion. In herbal tea, peppermint can ease upset stomachs and relieve digestive muscle aches or cramps because it acts as an antispasmodic. Externally, Peppermint Oil is often used in soothing balms and massage oils. It cools the skin and promotes blood flow where applied. Inhaling mint like peppermint or peppermint oil can loosen up respiratory mucus.
Mint inhalants should not be used for a prolonged period, and they should not be used for infants.

Growing-Herbs.com Â© 2010 | All Rights Reserved