Sink the containers into garden beds, leaving the top two inches of the rim above ground. Use large containers measuring eight to 24 inches in diameter and with a similar depth. In the garden, space plants 12 to 24 inches apart in containers to keep growth in check. Plants are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 8. Mint is a vigorous grower that likes organically-rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. After plants are established, transplant into the garden in their permanent locations. Keep the pots in a sheltered spot for four to six weeks, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Once a strong root system has formed, pot up the stems into containers six to eight inches deep and wide, filled with sterile, well-draining potting soil.įirm the soil around the stems and water gently. The roots will start to form in 10 to 14 days and cuttings can be planted out in three to four weeks. Place stems in a small glass of water, and set in a light, airy windowsill until healthy roots have formed. Longer stems are preferable because roots sprout from the leaf nodes – more leaf nodes from long stems means more roots and a strong plant. Cut the stem just below a set of leaf nodes to prevent it from curling in water. Using a hand saw or garden shears, cut the root ball into quarters.Ĭut off four- to six-inch pieces, removing the lower three or four sets of leaves. By Root DivisionĪutumn is the ideal time to take root cuttings, but early spring works as well.Ĭhoose a rootbound container plant and gently remove the root ball from the pot. If you want to try growing it from seed, we have more tips here. I have an unintentional patch of minty oregano from this cross-pollination trait – it’s very tasty in icy drinks!Ĭommercial growers propagate vegetatively, and root division or stem cuttings give the best results for home gardeners. Mentha seed is tiny – at approximately 14,000 seeds per gram – and difficult to germinate.Īnd, being an avid cross breeder, seeds produce variable results – often with a different taste and appearance than that of the parent plants. Today, Mentha is an important commercial crop in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho with the oils used primarily to flavor candy, chewing gum, cough drops, mouthwash, and toothpaste. The name originates from a Greek myth about a river nymph and means “having a sweet smell.”Ī versatile herb, it has been cultivated for cooking and medicinal use throughout history.Īlthough mint grows wild in North America, root stock was introduced by English settlers, and by the 1790s crops for distillation of the essential oil were commercially grown in Massachusetts. Carlsen, et al, published in the BMC Nutrition Journal, Mentha is high in antioxidants, and has long been recognized for its aromatic, medicinal, and therapeutic properties. It’s also widely used in candies, teas, and toiletries – as well as aromatherapy and herbal remedies.Īccording to an article by Monica H. They come in all shades of green – with some variegated types as well.įast growing, plants send out runners (stolons) above and below ground to quickly establish large, lush colonies.įor this reason, they need to be contained when planting, if you don’t want them to take over – or only planted in areas where you don’t mind them spreading freely.įragrant and deliciously cooling, mint is a popular beverage and kitchen herb. Ashley Martens, Redbook, 26 Apr.Leaves have a serrated edge and can have either a smooth or fuzzy texture. 2023 Top with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve up to all of your summertime guests for an easy appetizer or quick snack. Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 5 Jan. 2023 Add juices and one sprig of rosemary to a cocktail shaker with ice. Adapted from Sutanya Dacres Click here to view this recipe in our recipes section. 25 oz Crème de Pêche Mint sprig Instructions Add ingredients to a mixing glass with pebble ice. 2023 Courtesy of Delish Bellevue Ingredients 1.5 oz Elijah Craig Bourbon. Aaron Hutcherson, Washington Post, Eubank and a ranger then crept into the paddy with handfuls of rice sprigs and a volley of gunfire poured in, bullets striking within feet of Karen and the kids at the rear. 2023 Herbs and/or spices, such as cinnamon sticks or sprigs of rosemary, can be included for even more flavor. 2023 The unique design also includes some of the flowers from the Queen's funeral bouquet, including her favorite pink roses, myrtle cut from a plant grown from the same sprig Princess Elizabeth had in her wedding bouquet and rosemary, the traditional emblem of remembrance. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Mar. Noun When you're done, add a few sprigs of faux greenery and a pretty plaid bow.
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