Mint - Spearmint seeds

Mint - Spearmint seeds
Mentha spicata viridis
Perennial Culinary Herb
Height: 60cm
Flavor: Refreshing, with a strong scent
Uses: Can be eaten raw or cooked; commonly used in drinks, teas, salads, sauces, and as a garnish. Ideal for containers.

Mint is a hardy perennial herb known for its refreshing flavor and vibrant green leaves. With a spreading habit, mint grows up to 60cm tall and has a strong, aromatic scent. This variety is commonly used in culinary applications like teas, drinks, sauces, and garnishes. It can be grown in garden beds or containers but should be managed carefully to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.

Care & Growing Instructions

When to Sow Mint Seeds
Mint can be grown year-round in most climates. Avoid sowing during extreme hot or cold conditions, as these can hinder germination and growth.

Preparation

• Position: Mint thrives in full sun or part shade, with at least 3 hours of sunlight per day.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Prepare by weeding, loosening the soil, and adding aged manure or compost.
• Containers: Mint can also be grown in containers to control its spread. Use at least a 10-litre container and a high-quality potting mix. Container plants may need additional fertiliser during the growing season.

How to Sow Mint Seeds

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1mm deep.
• Soil Conditions: Keep the soil moist but not overly wet or dry.
• Germination: Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days at a soil temperature of 13-18°C.
• Transplanting: Once seedlings have their first true leaves and are large enough to handle (5-10cm tall), transplant them into the garden, spacing them 30cm apart.
• Germination Tip: Mint seeds are tiny, so handle them with care. You can mix seeds with sand or fine potting mix to help with even sowing.

How to Grow Mint

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.
• Fertilising: If your soil is rich, no additional fertiliser is necessary. For poor soil or to encourage healthy growth, use a high-nitrogen fertiliser.
• Growing Tip: Regular watering and proper soil care will encourage strong growth. Mint grows well in containers but requires adequate space to spread.

How to Harvest Mint
Mint is ready to harvest in 80-90 days. The leaves have the strongest flavor just before flowering, when the essential oil content is highest.

• Harvesting: Pinch off the outer stems and leaves as needed, leaving some growth for continued production.
• Storage:
  • Short-term: Store mint in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge or place stems in a jar of water.
  • Long-term: Dry the leaves or freeze them in ice cubes for later use.

Summary

• Planting: Grow mint in full sun or part shade, using well-drained, organic-enriched soil.
• Watering: Keep soil moist, especially during dry weather.
• Harvesting: Pick leaves before flowering for the best flavor. Store in the fridge or preserve by drying or freezing.