did you know?

In ancient Greece, mint was prized as a body rub to use after bathing; Romans believed that mint spurred one's appetite for meat. To the Victorians, mint signified warmth and sentiment. Of the 500 or so different mints, most people agree that spearmint is the most important for culinary use.

general maintenance:

Deadhead flowers, and remove old foliage after frost or before new growth emerges in spring. Divide plants as required.

pests/diseases:

Powdery mildew, rust, leaf spot and anthracnose may occur.

controls:

To control powdery mildew, rust, leaf spot, and anthracnose, remove infected plants. Try reducing soil moisture for leaf spot and anthracnose. For powdery mildew, don't water from above.

how to sow/plant:

Start with new plants, divisions in early spring, cuttings in summer. Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, and amend with well-rotted manure or compost. Set plants at the same depth they grew previously, spacing 9–12 inches apart. Or plant in containers with well-drained potting mix. Mulch to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil all season. In spring, feed with a balanced water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer, following label directions.

garden hint:

To keep fast-growing mints from taking over the garden, grow them in containers sunk into the ground. In spring, pinch their tips, and prune them regularly. Rejuvenate mints by clipping them nearly to soil level in midsummer.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Deer Resistant
• Fragrant
• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders
• Ground Cover
• Naturalizing

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible
• Potpourri

combine with:

beebalm feverfew foxglove sage and yarrow for a flowering herb or border garden.