Mint is a very hardy perennial with a strong scent. Pick freely for use in salads, jellies and teas. Mint tends to overpower the garden if not kept in check. This perennial herb is hardy to Zone 3.
Preparation Ideas: This versatile herb can be used in meat dishes, potato dishes, iced drinks or iced cream to name a few.
Instructions
Growing Instructions:
Start Mint seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Follow the seed depth and spacing guidelines indicated below. Once all danger of frost has passed, seedlings should be hardened off before planting into their growing location. Seedlings should be transplanted according to the plant spacing directions below. Pick a location sheltered from the wind and receives at least 6 hours of sun per day. Regularly monitor your plants and ensure that the soil remains moist, but not soggy while they establish themselves in their new environment.
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Planting Depth: 3 mm (1/8")
Plant Spacing: 40 cm (16")
Row Spacing: 40 cm (16")
Instructions for Nutrient Care: Feed plants SUPERthrive once per week. Mix 1.2 ml (1/4 tsp) per 4L (1 gallon) of water in a watering can and apply solution to the base of the plants.
Suggestions
Growing Suggestions:
Water your mint during long dry spells. It is also important to water it regularly in the early days after planting as the young plants are still quite sensitive.
Mint can be aggressive and choose with care where you plant it.
To control the spread of mint, the best way is first plant it in a pot and then place the pot in the ground or a larger container with soil. Rotate the pot by a quarter turn every few weeks to prevent the roots from escaping through the drainage holes. This will help to limit the growth and spread of the plant.
The best time to harvest mint leaves is right before the flowers appear, usually midway through the growing season. However, you can start collecting individual leaves as soon as the plants reach a height of at least 10 cm (4").