How to Grow Mountain Mint

There are over 20 species of mountain mint (Pycnanthemum), all with a refreshing aroma. Those without hairs repel insects and can be toxic if eaten, while those with hairy leaves and stem can be steeped into fresh mint teas or eaten. A native wildflower, mountain mint is unfussy in its requirements and unappetizing to deer, making it a very useful garden plant.

Spade

Instructions

- 1
  Find a partially shady area for your mountain mint. While getting established, young plants enjoy a rich, moist soil and shade environment; mature plants can tolerate drought.
- 2
  Prepare the soil for planting. Turn the dirt over with a spade and remove debris from the planting site. Break apart soil clods with your hands, then rake the soil flat with a landscape rake.
- 3
  Dig a furrow 1 inch deep. Sow mountain mint seeds in the furrow, leaving 3 to 4 inches between seeds. Cover over with soil to complete the planting.
- 4
  Water the soil to moisten it, then maintain a moist soil until seeds germinate within a couple weeks.
- 5
  Weed out competing plants so your mountain mint can develop. Continue to weed the garden bed all season long.
- 6
  Water the growing mint to saturate the soil, then allow it to dry out thoroughly before watering again.
- 7
  Cut mountain mint down in the autumn as part of your fall cleanup.

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