To grow peppermint successfully, plant it in soil enriched with general multipurpose compost to help retain moisture, and water it well, especially in hot weather, as it prefers damp conditions.
Here's a more detailed guide:
Selecting Your Peppermint
- Source: Obtain peppermint starts or cuttings from a reputable nursery. This ensures you're getting true peppermint, not a related mint variety.
- Varieties: Consider different peppermint varieties, each with slightly varying flavors and characteristics.
Preparing the Soil
- Enrichment: Mix a general multipurpose compost thoroughly into the soil. This improves drainage and provides essential nutrients.
- Soil Type: While peppermint isn't overly picky, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
- Container Growing: If growing in a container, use a potting mix specifically formulated for herbs or vegetables.
Planting Your Peppermint
- Timing: The best time to plant peppermint is in the spring or fall.
- Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for growth. For containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter.
- Planting Depth: Plant the peppermint starts or cuttings at the same depth they were growing previously.
- Invasiveness: Peppermint, like other mints, is invasive and spreads rapidly via underground runners. Planting in containers is highly recommended to control its spread. If planting in the ground, consider using a barrier such as burying a large plastic container with the bottom cut out around the planting area.
Caring for Your Peppermint
- Watering: Peppermint prefers damp conditions. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Sunlight: Peppermint grows best in partial shade, especially in hotter climates. It can tolerate full sun, but the leaves may scorch if not properly watered.
- Fertilizing: Feed your peppermint plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning: Regularly prune or harvest your peppermint to encourage bushier growth. Pinching off the top leaves encourages side shoots to develop.
- Winter Care: In colder climates, peppermint may die back in the winter. Mulch around the plants to protect the roots. In containers, move the plants to a sheltered location.
Harvesting
- When to Harvest: Harvest peppermint leaves throughout the growing season. The flavor is most intense before the plant flowers.
- How to Harvest: Cut stems back to just above a leaf node. This encourages new growth.
- Drying: To dry peppermint, hang bunches of stems upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Once dry, store the leaves in an airtight container.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh peppermint for teas, culinary uses, and more.
