With the beginning of spring, welcome to a new gardening column. For the first edition, we’re introducing a plant perfect for the environment of Seattle: mint, one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just interested in starting this year, mint offers a simple, aromatic addition to your garden that can be enjoyed year-round. From its fresh flavor in beverages and dishes to its natural medicinal properties, mint has something to offer everyone.
Mint is part of the Labiatae family along with many other herbs. Some of the most well known types of mint are peppermint and spearmint. There are many different special species of mint such as citrus mint, lemon mint, and chocolate mint.
Mint is a hardy perennial that can withstand cooler temperatures and can grow almost anywhere. Whether you have the perfect spot in your garden bed, a hanging basket on your balcony, or a small glass jar inside, mint will flourish with minimal care. Growing mint is very straightforward, but there are a few tips to help your mint plant thrive:
- If you are growing mint outside, choose a spot with full or at least partial sun. Too little sunlight will cause the plant to grow leggy with less flavorful leaves.
- Mint prefers moist, well-drained soil, which is why the naturally damp soil of Seattle is perfect. Adding compost or organic matter can help improve drainage.
- Mint can be grown in a variety of forms from seeds, cuttings, or small plants purchased from a nursery. It’s easiest to start from a small plant. However, mint can also be easily propagated from a small cutting. Just place it in water or directly in soil and give it plenty of water, and it will quickly root and multiply.
- Mint is notorious for spreading rapidly. If left unattended, a mint plant can easily take over a garden. That’s why it can be helpful to plant mint in its own pot to contain its roots from spreading. However, if you would prefer to plant it straight in the ground, using a root barrier or simply cutting it back every once in a while can help prevent it from overtaking other plants.
- Regular pruning encourages mint to produce more leaves. The white or purple flowers of mint are beautiful, but the leaves may lose some of their flavor once the plant blooms.
Mint is a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden or home, and also mint has numerous uses and benefits.
Mint is widely used in many recipes as it has a unique flavor with a hint of sweetness and a refreshing touch of coolness. Whether it’s adding a handful of fresh mint leaves to lemonade or a cool glass of water on a hot summer day, or steeping them in boiling water for tea on a winter day, mint can be used any season. Mint leaves add a refreshing burst of flavor to a variety of dishes, from salads to desserts. It can even be incorporated into savory dishes like pho, thai chicken, and grilled lamb.
Throughout history, various mint plants have been used in medicine. Mint plants are considered to have health benefits and offer some antioxidant qualities. For instance, peppermint oil is often used to help treat headaches. It’s thought to have a soothing effect on the digestive system potentially improving irritable bowel syndrome or indigestion.
Mint also serves as a natural pest repellent. Its strong aroma can help deter spiders, mosquitoes, and deer. Planting mint can help keep these animals away while adding beauty and fragrance to your garden.
As you embark on your spring gardening journey, let mint be your first success story! It asks for little but gives back in abundance—flavor, fragrance, and function all in one. So grab a pot, plant a cutting, and watch as this humble yet powerful herb transforms your space into a lush, aromatic haven. Happy gardening, and stay tuned for more green-thumb wisdom in the weeks ahead!
