Peppermint Plant Care

Propagation

• Peppermint doesn't produce seeds, but stem cuttings root quickly in water, and are fairly easy to grow. You can also divide the plant in spring or autumn by cutting one of the runners leading to a new seedling.

Location

• Plant your mint in a well-draining area in which the soil retains water in the summer. Peppermint, like all mint plants, can take over a garden bed if left to its own devices. It sends out runners and quickly spreads to fill any available space. For this reason, plant peppermint in a separate area from other plants; a couple of peppermint plants about 2 feet apart will fill in the space between and create a nice ground cover. If such a space is not available, sink a large bucket or other container into the ground to help contain the roots and discourage them from sending out runners. Perhaps the best way to keep peppermint from taking over is to plant it in containers; this also allows you to bring it indoors in the winter.

Watering

• If your peppermint is growing outdoors, intermittent watering will be sufficient, as mints are hardy plants. If you're growing your mint in a container, you'll need to water more frequently. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and don't allow it to dry out.

Considerations

• Peppermint thrives in full or partial sun and moist soil. If you plant it in an area that doesn't receive enough sun, it can become leggy. If you don't provide enough water, the plant is weakened and becomes susceptible to diseases. Pests shouldn't be a problem, as mint plants don't attract many insects.

  Peppermint is a perennial. Planted outdoors, it requires mulch for protection if you live in an area with very cold winters.

Harvesting

• Cut your peppermint, as needed, throughout the growing season. You can use it fresh, or dry the leaves for tea. Freezing the leaves will help retain the essential oils.