mint - spearmint
spearmint, garden mint or common mint
Aromatic bright green leaves and dense spikes of pink, lilac or white summer flowers. Spearmint is perfect for growing in a terracotta container in full sun. Container-grown specimens are best placed close to paths and entrances, where the aromatic foliage can be enjoyed and easily picked for use in mint sauce, salads and summer drinks.
How to care for Mentha spicata:
Plant mints in moist, fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. As they’re vigorous growers, it’s best to plant them in large pots or sink containers into the ground to stop the roots spreading—make sure there are drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Keep the soil consistently moist and feed occasionally during the growing season.
Lift and divide plants each spring to refresh growth, replanting the younger, healthier sections into fresh compost. You can also divide in autumn if needed. Harvest the leaves regularly once growth is established, taking the tips to encourage bushy new shoots, and use fresh or dry for later use.
Lift and divide plants each spring to refresh growth, replanting the younger, healthier sections into fresh compost. You can also divide in autumn if needed. Harvest the leaves regularly once growth is established, taking the tips to encourage bushy new shoots, and use fresh or dry for later use.
Sowing instructions:
From late winter to mid-spring, sow shallowly in trays or pots of good quality seed compost and keep keep moist but not overly wet. Germination usually takes between 2 and 4 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted to small pots or cells and then hardened off and planted outside after all risk of frost has passed.
Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared bed in late spring and when large enough to handle, thin out to allow 25cm between each plant. Once established, regular picking will help encourage new growth to form.
Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared bed in late spring and when large enough to handle, thin out to allow 25cm between each plant. Once established, regular picking will help encourage new growth to form.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This herb dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
9cm pot
£7.99
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2 + 1 FREE 9cm pots
£15.98
£5.33 each
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(shipped within 2-3 working days)
approx 300 seeds
£2.99
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1
