Mentha spicata, known as spearmint or peppermint, is a great herb to add to your garden collection. This aromatic plant is commonly used in Spanish cuisine and provides a distinctive mint flavor and fragrance.
But what are the specific characteristics and essential care of peppermint? In this article we will explore its characteristics and care, so that you can grow and harvest the freshest and most aromatic mint.
Characteristics of peppermint
Peppermint, also known as spearmint, common mint, garden mint, spearmint, Mary's herb, Bethlehem sage, among other names. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the Mentha genus and the Lamiaceae family.
Native to the Mediterranean region and is also found in the temperate areas of southern Asia. It is a plant that spreads to form an extensive colony, it is very resistant and can take over your garden after it is established.
Once secured in a suitable location It is a very beautiful plant to incorporate into your garden with complementary plants. It is usually found in areas with humid soil.
It can grow up to a meter in height, and its leaves have a very characteristic shape as they are toothed on the edges, oval in shape, with a strong mint aroma.
Its flowers are small and arranged in clusters. The roots of the plant are strong and are mainly used for reproduction.
Peppermint is known for its intense flavor and refreshing fragrance, and It is a popular addition to teas, desserts and savory dishes.
Peppermint care
Here are some tips on how to care for your peppermint:
Land
Peppermint thrives in rich, well-drained soil. It is best to use a mixture of potting soil, loam and organic matter when planting. The pH of the soil should be alkaline, acidic.
Sun light
It likes to get a lot of direct sunlight, so find a place in your garden where the plant can get the morning sun, but you should keep an eye on it and Place it in a partially shaded location during the hottest hours of the day.
If you have it in pot inside the house, it is very important to find the right location since It is an aromatic plant that needs to receive a lot of sunlight. Placing it on the kitchen window sill is ideal if you have it inside.
If it is in the garden, keep in mind that it cannot get very cold and if you are in a very sunny place it is better to place it in semi-shade, to prevent the leaves and stems from burning.
Water
Requires frequent watering to keep the soil moist, but make sure not to overwater, since the roots of the plant are prone to rot. Watering the plant in the morning with a light application of water is a great way to keep it hydrated.
Fertilization
Peppermint requires regular feeding to encourage healthy growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for lush, vibrant growth.
Pruning
Trim any overgrown or leggy branches to encourage healthy growth and prevent the plant from becoming unruly.
Peppermint harvest
Harvesting it in your garden is easy. You just have to tear off the leaves and stems of the plant and chop them as needed. The best time to harvest mint is late morning or evening, when the flavor and fragrance of the plant are at their peak.
Complementary plants
Peppermint combines well with other herbs and vegetables. It is ideal that you combine it with tomato, pepper and cucumber plants, or with other herbs such as basil and oregano. These combinations are not only visually beautiful, but They can help protect your garden from the most common pests.
Pests and diseases
Peppermint is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. To prevent possible problems, Use an organic insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep pests at bay. Also, be sure to space plants correctly and keep foliage free of debris to prevent the spread of disease.
Uses and properties of peppermint
This plant is very popular for its aromatic oil that has multiple benefits. Components such as carvone and limonene give spearmint its characteristic smell.
- This oil has health benefits, a very important one is to help promote digestion and reduce stomach upset.
- If you add a few drops of the essential oil to brush your teeth helps freshen breath. You can combine it very well with essential oils of rosemary, lavender, basil and eucalyptus.
- Also good grass you can use it in the kitchen because it is very rich in potassium.
- Ideal for adding flavor to stews.
- It is also used in cocktails to add that characteristic and intense touch, for example: a mojito, (cocktail with white rum, sugar, sparkling water and mint).
- Preparing a tea with its leaves can relieve a sore throat, coughs, colds, because menthol intervenes within the essential oils, which has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic properties.
- This plant can also be used to repel insects. since it is very good for eliminate pests such as mosquitoes, flies and cockroaches.
- You can place a peppermint plant in kitchen windows or the bathroom and can help you keep them away from the house.
How can you use peppermint?
We have been able to observe that it has many uses and properties, so you can use it in several ways:
Dried or crushed leaves: in this way You can use it to prepare infusions or teas and season some foods.
Essential oil: It is used in aromatherapy to apply in relaxing massages, being of great benefit to loosen muscles. Also, relieve tension headaches, neck contractures and loosen tension.
Capsules: They are sold this way, it is more concentrated and can be taken daily, but it is important to control consumption or consult.
Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, peppermint is a great herb to grow. Easy to care for and harvest, is an essential addition to any herb garden.
If you follow these tips for care and harvesting, you will be able to enjoy the flavor and fragrance of peppermint all year round.