Spearmint
Spearmint is a sweet mint that can be used for culinary and aroma therapeutic purposes. It grows well in moist soil and warm weather, but will tolerate drought and light frost. It’s flowers attract honeybees and other pollinators to the garden. Read on for tips to grow, harvest, and use this common garden mint.
Growing Spearmint
Spearmint is drought tolerate, but well watered spearmint will be finer, and brighter green in color.
This is an herb that spreads quickly by its roots. Like most mint, spearmint will send out horizontal stems, and each leaf group will root into the soil. This makes spearmint an easy plant to separate and move to other areas of the garden if so desired. It also means that without maintenance, it can start to take over certain areas.
Harvesting Spearmint
Spearmint can be harvested at anytime. Using garden shears, cut the stems above the first or second set of leaves. Cut however much you need, from a few sprigs to shearing the whole plant. This mint grows quickly in warm weather, and will benefit from frequent cuttings.
Washing Spearmint
Spearmint needs to be rinsed well. It’s sweet green leaves will attract a few friends, so wash spearmint thoroughly before using. Either rinse in cold water or plunge into a bath of cool water and swirl. Lay on a dish towel to dry.
Spearmint Bouquet
Any spearmint that won’t be used right away can be placed in a glass on the counter. Wouldn’t it be pretty paired with some flowers? The herb will be happy to be used as needed this way for several days. After a week, it may start to grow roots which is nice if you’d like to plant spearmint in another area of the garden.
Drying Spearmint
Either hang the spearmint in bunches, or lay the sprigs on a wire rack. Cover with a paper towel to keep dust off. Once dry, store in a glass jar.
Brew dried spearmint the same way you would a loose leaf tea for the perfect after dinner or before bed drink.
Removing Spearmint Leaves from Stems
Spearmint leaves can be removed from the stems just like oregano. Pinch the top of the stem between index finger and thumb and pull down. The leaves will snap back and off the sprig as your fingers move down the stem. This works for both fresh and dried spearmint.
Spearmint Recipes
Spearmint is a fun ingredient for both green and fruit salads. It also goes well in smoothies, yogurt sauces, or can be used as a garnish.
Notes on Spearmint
This herb is a useful addition to any garden. Spearmint’s leaves can be enjoyed for aromatherapy and culinary purpose. It’s easy to grow and care for, and will tolerate drought. Caring for an herb garden is a fun way to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Welcome, honored guest, to my garden! I also write about home decorating, sewing, and travel. Check out my about page to learn more about me. And Subscribe for more like this!
