Mighty Mint

 

Mint is one of my favorite herbs—but I definitely prefer growing it in containers or raised beds! Mint is a vigorous perennial that can spread quickly when planted directly in the ground, so giving it its own contained space can save you a lot of work later.

 
 

Growing Mint

 

Mint is an easy-to-grow herb that prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. It can grow in sun or part shade, although a little afternoon shade can be helpful during our intense East Texas summers.

Mint also grows well in containers, making it easy to keep close to the kitchen or give as a plant gift to a friend. It can even be grown indoors near a bright, sunny window.

 
 

Keep Mint Contained

 

If there’s one thing to remember about mint, it’s this: mint likes to spread! Its underground stems can quickly move beyond the area where it was originally planted.

Growing mint in a container or contained raised bed is one of the easiest ways to enjoy plenty of fresh mint without allowing it to take over neighboring plants.

 
 

Harvesting Your Mint

 

Regular harvesting actually helps keep mint full and encourages fresh new growth. Snip stems as needed throughout the growing season, preferably just above a set of leaves.

For larger harvests, avoid removing too much of the plant at once. Leaving plenty of healthy foliage behind allows your mint to recover and continue producing.

 
 

So Many Varieties to Try!

 

With so many types of mint available, it’s easy to end up growing more than one. Depending on availability, you may find favorites such as spearmint, peppermint, chocolate mint, apple mint, and mojito mint.

Give them a sniff and you may find yourself wanting one of each!

 
 

Ways to Use Fresh Mint

 

Fresh mint can be used in both sweet and savory recipes, drinks, teas, and garnishes. Add a few leaves to cold water for a refreshing flavor, steep fresh leaves for mint tea, toss it into a summer salad, or use it to add fresh flavor to your favorite recipes.

With its wonderful fragrance, easy-growing nature, and so many uses in the kitchen, mint is one herb that earns its place in the garden—just make sure you give it a container of its own!