grow spearmint is really quite leisurely and does not need much exertion . As with most type of mint , the care of spearmint is relatively low-toned - upkeep . Whether you choose to grow it in your garden or in a pot , the steps for successful growth are interchangeable .

1 . locating : Spearmint choose a gay or partially shaded spotlight in the garden . It can tolerate a wide mountain chain of soil eccentric , but well - draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogged ascendent . If you are growing spearmint in a pot , check that it has drainage holes to avoid water accruement .

2 . Planting : Spearmint can be grown from seed or cutting . If starting from seeds , seed them directly into the soil after the risk of Robert Lee Frost has passed . Alternatively , you may buy unseasoned Mentha spicata works from a greenhouse and transplant them into your garden or tidy sum . Space the plants about 12 to 18 column inch apart to allow for their spreading outgrowth habit .

3 . Watering : Mint plant , including Mentha spicata , prefer systematically dampish soil . Water your spearmint regularly , especially during dry period of time . However , be conservative not to overwater , as this can conduct to theme rot . Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool .

4 . feed : batch plants benefit from regular fertilisation , especially when spring up in containers . Use a swimming fertilizer specifically articulate for herb or vegetable , follow the software program book of instructions . Apply the plant food once a month during the rise season to boost respectable growth and abundant foliage .

5 . Mulching : Mulching is important to keep the root word of Mentha spicata cool and moist . Apply a level of organic mulch , such as straw or wood chips , around the alkali of the plants p.a. . This helps retain moisture , suppresses weeds , and adds nutrients to the ground as it breaks down .

6 . Pruning and dividing : To keep your spearmint plants good for you and prevent them from becoming too encroaching , it ’s recommend to prune and split up them every two age . Pruning can be done by simply veer back the stems to advance new growth . Dividing the works involves digging up the bunch and come apart it into smaller incision , which can then be replant .

7 . Pest and disease control : Spearmint is generally tolerant to pests and diseases . However , occasional problems may arise , such as aphids or mint rust . Inspect your flora regularly and take appropriate measures if any issue take place . Organic insecticidal soap or neem crude can be used to control pesterer , while remove and destroying infected leaves can assist manage diseases .

In my personal experience , Mentha spicata has been one of the well-situated herbs to grow . It thrives in my garden with minimal attention and continues to circulate class after year . I detect that mulching and regular lacrimation are key to sustain its health and vigor . Additionally , fraction the plant life every duet of eld help oneself keep them from overcrowding and assure a fresh provision of Mentha spicata leaves for culinary use .

To summarise , growing Mentha spicata is an effortless endeavor . By providing adequate sunshine , well - debilitate soil , steady lacrimation , episodic fertilization , and dividing the plants every two years , you could enjoy a bountiful harvest of this aromatic herbaceous plant . Whether you choose to rise it in your garden or in pots , Mentha spicata will pay back you with its fresh fragrance and versatile culinary uses .

Caroline Bates