Spearmint Growing Guide

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a fragrant and versatile perennial herb widely used in culinary dishes, teas, and herbal remedies. Known for its refreshing, sweet flavor, spearmint is easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, it’s a vigorous spreader, so careful management is essential to keep it from overtaking your garden.

    

Planting Spearmint

Sunlight: Spearmint thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers 4-6 hours of sunlight daily but can tolerate more shade, especially in hotter climates.

Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Spearmint grows best in rich, fertile soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged.

When to Plant: Spearmint can be planted in the spring after the last frost or in early fall. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or root divisions. Seeds should be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, while cuttings and divisions can be planted directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

 

Seed Sowing and Transplanting

Starting Seeds Indoors: Sow spearmint seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down. Do not cover them with soil, as spearmint seeds need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C). Seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate.

Transplanting: Transplant seedlings or cuttings outdoors when they are about 3-4 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow room for growth.

Direct Sowing or Root Divisions: If planting outdoors, space root divisions or established plants 12-18 inches apart in rows. Mint spreads rapidly, so consider planting in containers or using barriers to control its growth.

 

Caring for Spearmint

Watering: Spearmint prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Fertilization: Spearmint does not require heavy fertilization. Apply compost or a balanced, organic fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with compost or fertilizer once or twice during the growing season if needed. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to become leggy and reduce the potency of its flavor.

Pruning and Harvesting: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems regularly to promote branching and prevent flowering, as flowering can reduce the flavor of the leaves. You can start harvesting spearmint leaves once the plant reaches 4-6 inches in height. Cut the stems just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.

Pest and Disease Management: Spearmint is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

 

Harvesting and Storing Spearmint

When to Harvest: Spearmint leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant is well-established, usually after 2-3 months of growth. For the best flavor, harvest leaves before the plant flowers, ideally in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to snip the stems just above a leaf node. Regular harvesting encourages more growth. You can harvest individual leaves or entire stems, depending on your needs.

Storing Fresh Mint: Fresh spearmint can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place the stems in a glass of water and cover loosely with a plastic bag, or wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag.

Drying and Storing Mint: To dry spearmint, hang small bundles of stems upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Once the leaves are completely dry, strip them from the stems and store them in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Dried spearmint can be stored for up to a year.

 

Using Spearmint

Culinary: Spearmint is commonly used in teas, salads, sauces, desserts, and as a garnish for drinks. It pairs well with lamb, peas, potatoes, and fruit.

Medicinal: Spearmint is known for its soothing properties and can be used in teas or tinctures to help with digestion, headaches, and respiratory issues.

Aromatherapy: The refreshing scent of spearmint can be used in potpourri, sachets, or essential oil blends for its uplifting and invigorating effects.

 

Growing Tips

Container Growing: Due to its invasive nature, spearmint is often best grown in containers or raised beds to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably. Containers should be at least 12 inches wide and deep.

Companion Planting: Spearmint can be planted near cabbage, tomatoes, and other vegetables to help repel pests. However, avoid planting it near parsley or chamomile, as it may inhibit their growth.

Overwintering: Spearmint is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plants in late fall to protect the roots from freezing. Spearmint can also be brought indoors in containers to continue growing through the winter.

Soil Preparation: If growing in the ground, consider using root barriers or planting in a dedicated herb garden to keep spearmint from spreading into unwanted areas.

 

Growing spearmint in your garden ensures a continuous supply of fresh, fragrant leaves perfect for culinary, medicinal, and aromatic uses. Enjoy the robust growth and refreshing flavor of this easy-to-grow herb!