Mint
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Sowing outdoors
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Harvest
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How do I sow mint outdoors?
To sow mint outdoors, choose a sunny spot but with some shade to prevent the plant drying out. Mint is generally sown in spring, once all risk of frost has passed.
Before sowing, work the soil well by weeding and loosening the compacted soil. Mint likes rich, well-drained soil, so don't hesitate to add a little compost to improve soil quality.
Sow the mint seeds about 1 to 2 cm deep and about 30 cm apart. Cover the seeds with fine soil and tamp lightly to ensure good contact. Water regularly but lightly to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Make sure the mint seedlings are not exposed to too much direct sunlight, especially during periods of intense heat. Once the plants are well developed, prune them regularly to encourage growth. Mint can spread easily, so keep an eye on runners to prevent it becoming invasive.
When should mint be harvested?
Mint is an aromatic plant that is easy to grow and maintain in a natural garden. To harvest mint, it is recommended to do so in late spring or during the summer, when the leaves are well developed. Mint stems should be cut just above a pair of leaves, taking care not to cut too close to the ground to allow the plant to continue growing. It is best to harvest mint early in the morning, before the heat of the day has had a chance to alter the taste and properties of the plant.
Once harvested, mint can be stored in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge for around a week. For longer storage, the leaves can be dried in the shade, spread out on a flat, airy surface. Once dry, the leaves can be stored in an airtight container away from light. Mint can also be frozen for later use in cooked dishes.
Mint
- Type : Aromatic plants
- Subtype : Leafy vegetables
- Botanical Family : Lamiaceae (labiate)
Characteristics
- Lifecycle : Perennial
- Exposure : Partial Shade
- Frost Hardiness : Frost Resistant
- Cultivation Difficulty : Easy
- Adult Height : 30 cm
Sowing & Planting
- Plant Spacing : 10 cm
- Row Spacing : 25 cm
Maintenance
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Water Requirements : Moderate