Love fresh mint but hate the upkeep?
Good news: it doesn’t have to be hard.
Here are 6 effortless ways to contain and care for your mint. Spend less time fussing and more time enjoying.
Let’s make mint care a breeze!
Pick the Right Container
Mint loves to spread like wildfire, but you can keep it in check by growing it in a pot. Choose a container that’s about 12- to 16-inches wide and at least 10 inches deep.
This gives the roots enough room to grow without taking over your entire garden. Plus, you’ll be able to move it around to find the perfect spot for sun and shade.
Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Use Good Quality Soil
Mint isn’t too picky, but giving it some good quality soil can make all the difference. Use a standard potting mix and add a little bit of compost if you have some on hand.
The compost enriches the soil, providing vital nutrients for a healthy, happy mint plant. Plus, good soil helps with drainage, so your mint won’t get waterlogged.
Water Regularly
Mint loves moisture but hates to sit in soggy soil. Try to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.
Stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Depending on your climate, you’ll probably need to water about two to three times a week.
But always adjust your watering schedule based on the weather and the soil’s moisture level.
Give It Enough Sunlight
Mint thrives in partial sunlight, about 4-6 hours a day. It can handle a bit of shade, but too much darkness will make it leggy and less flavorful.
If you’re growing your mint indoors, a sunny windowsill is perfect. For outdoor plants, find a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade to keep your mint cozy and content.
Pinch and Harvest Regularly
Regularly pinching and harvesting your mint encourages it to grow fuller and bushier. Don’t be shy!
Pinch off the tips of the stems every couple of weeks. You can also harvest leaves whenever you need them, just be sure to leave some leaves behind so the plant can keep growing.
The more you pinch, the more mint you’ll get!
Keep an Eye Out for Pests
Mint is generally pretty hardy, but that doesn’t mean it’s entirely pest-proof. Keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites.
If you spot any, a quick spray with soapy water usually does the trick. For added protection, maintain good air circulation and avoid overcrowding your mint.
Happy, healthy plants are less likely to fall prey to pests!