Mixed Mint 500 Seeds Peppermint herb NON-GMO Heirloom Vegetable
Sowing: Mint grows well in rich soil and partial shade, and damp soil. Direct sow after the last spring frost, thinning the seedlings to 10-12". Keep in mind that mint spreads easily and can nearly take over the space it is planted in. Because of this, some gardeners prefer to grow mint in an isolated location or as a container plant because of its vigorous spreading habit. As a companion plant, mint benefits nearly every garden plant and repels many harmful insects. Mint also grows well from root cuttings or by division.
Growing: Mint appreciates rich soil, and will benefit from organic matter such as compost. Keep the soil fairly moist, but avoid getting the leaves wet when watering, since this can cause disease. In areas with cold winters, cut the plant down to the ground after frost and provide a thick layer of mulch for protection.
Harvesting: Fresh leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant reaches a height of 3-4". The small, young leaves tend to have the best flavor. Cut the stems down to within 1" of the ground level to allow for new growth. Keep the tops pruned to prevent blooming, since this causes the leaves to deteriorate in flavor. To dry the leaves, hang the stems upside down in a dry location until the leaves feel completely dry; strip them from the stems and keep them in an airtight container. Fresh mint leaves can also be frozen.
Seed Saving: Since many types of mint produce sterile seed or seed that is not true to type, saving the seed may be somewhat of an experiment. Harvest the seed heads as soon as they grow dry and brown; spread them out to finish drying out of sunlight, then thresh them to remove the seed. Store the peppermint seed in a cool, dry place.
Peppermint Herb Specifications
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 3 - 10
Height: 24 inches
Bloom Season: Summer to fall
Bloom Color: Pink
Environment: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Rich, moist soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 7.0
Deer Resistant: Yes
Latin Name: Mentha Piperita
Temperature: 72F
Average Germ Time: 10 - 15 days
Light Required: Yes
Depth: 1/8 - 1/4 inch deep
Sowing Rate: 3 - 5 seeds per plant
Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 18 - 24 inches
Spearmint Herb Specifications
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 4 - 9
Height: 12 - 36 inches
Bloom Season: Early summer
Bloom Color: Lavender
Environment: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, pH 6.1 - 7.5
Deer Resistant: Yes
Latin Name: Mentha Spicata
Temperature: 60 - 70F
Average Germ Time: 14 - 21 days
Light Required: Yes
Depth: 1/8 inch
Sowing Rate: 3 - 5 seeds per plant
Moisture: Keep moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 18 inches