3 Review(s)

Minimal care is needed for mint.For outdoor plants, use a light mulch.This will help keep the soil moist and keep the leaves clean.For indoor plants, be sure to water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.Do When choosing a location for your mint, find one where the plant will receive morning sun and partial afternoon shade.Plant on a patio, in a container.When planting the herb in a flower bed, first submerge a container (either a pot, a mesh bag or edging to at least 5 inches deep), leaving the rim above ground level when potted, so the mint s fast-growing root system will be containedOtherwise, the herb will take over your garden and lawn in an annoying weed-like fashionHarvest mint sprigs before the plant flowersTo extend the harvesting season, pinch off the flowering buds as they appear.If planting your mint in a garden bed, apply mulch to help keep it from spreading.Locate mint plants fifteen inches apart, and thin them regularly.If planting your mint indoors, locate your container where it will receive good morning light but where it will also be away from drying heating elements.Don t:Dont Plant mint in an open bed without first submerging a vessel that will contain the herb s wild-growing roots.If planting mint in a bed using a submerged pot, be sure it s not cracked.The runners will find their way out and continue to spread.Plant the herb in super moist conditions where it wont dry out.Care:Mints are vigorous perennials that thrive in light soil with good drainage.Ideally, they prefer a moist but well-drained site, something like their native habitat along stream banks.Most will tolerate some shade, and the variegated types may require some protection from direct sun.For growing outdoors, plant one or two purchased plants (or one or two cuttings from a friend) about 2 feet apart in moist soil.One or two plants will easily cover the ground.Mint should grow to be 1 or 2 feet tall.For best growth in confined areas such as containers, topdress plants with a thin layer of compost or organic fertilizer every few monthsAboveground pots will need winter protection in cold climates