Mint plants grow outside the door of many Ozark homes. Every time you walk in and out of the house the aromatic smell of mint greets you and brightens your day. Many say that mint is an invasive plant and must be controlled – we don't think so!
Mint Plant Benefits
When it comes to medicinal uses, mint is perhaps most popularly known as a remedy for digestive problems. Mint can reduce abdominal pain and help treat irritable bowel syndrome without producing side effects. All varieties of mint leaves may be used fresh, in dried herb form, brewed as a tea, or concentrated in an essential oil.
Mint Plant Uses
Most mint-family members, contain strongly aromatic oils (think lavender, rosemary, basil, thyme, and sage), which account for their many uses as seasoning, flavoring, and perfuming agents.
There are many safe uses for mint-family herbs besides beautifying your gardens.
- As food – salads and spice
- Drinks and infusions
- Tea
- Hair rinse
- Facial astringent
- Mouthwash
- Mint bath
- Sunburn relief
- Breath freshener
- Bug repellent
- Air freshener
How To Care For Mint Plants
Mint practically grows itself once started, but it does like a moist soil. Water your mint during dry spells to keep the soil lightly moist. If the soil feels dry about an inch down, give your plant some water. If you notice the foliage of your mint wilting, that's typically a sign the plant needs more moisture. It's best to water your mint in the morning so it has plenty of moisture during the day as temperatures rise.
Kinds Of Mint Plants
Peppermint and Spearmint are the most popular varieties, but there are many kinds to try. Here's a few of the most sought after:
- catmint plant
- chocolate mint plant
- hummingbird mint plant
- lemon mint plant
- sweet mint plant
- mountain mint plant
- apple mint plant
There are over 7,500 varieties of mint plants, including trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants. No matter the type that you grow, understand that all are invasive, taking over entire garden beds with ease. Gardeners often grow mint plants in containers due to their rapid spread.
Harvesting Mint
Harvesting mint lets you enjoy it all year. If you need just a few leaves for a recipe or tea, simply pluck individual leaves directly off the stems. On the other hand, if you want to harvest in bulk for storing just cut the stems and leaves using garden shears or a pair of sharp scissors. Remove the leaves from the stems for fresh use, or tie stem ends together for drying.
Starting Mint
Mint plants can be started from seed or from transplants. Plant sharing is very popular – just mail each other starts of your favorites. Or just pick seeds of mint you haven't grown before and give them a try.
Growing mint is one of the easiest and most fulfilling of gardening experiences. Enjoy your mint and share the wealth.
