Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9 outdoors, but you can easily grow it indoors too, as long as you consider a few things. One very important aspect to consider in growing peppermint inside is to have the right pot to grow it in.
Can a peppermint plant be kept indoors?
Unlike many other herbs, mint is very easy to grow indoors, as long as you give the plant enough light and consistent moisture (more on both of these in a later section). Mint also makes a surprisingly beautiful houseplant.
Can you grow peppermint outdoors?
Plant mint in spring after the last frost. This fast-growing herb can grow just about anywhere and makes an excellent addition to indoor and outdoor gardens. Space mint plants 18 to 24 inches apart. It’s best to grow them in pots to keep them from taking over your garden (even if you’re planting in the ground).
Where do you keep peppermint plants?
Plant mint in full sun or part shade. It can adapt to just about any type of soil, but develops the best foliage in moist, well-drained soil that has been enriched with compost. Keep the area around your mint free of weeds.
Does peppermint need full sunlight?
As long as the soil is moist, peppermint prefers exposure to full sun which helps the plant produce its oils. They can tolerate partial shade, but the flavor is strongest when your plant receives full sun. 3. Keep the soil moist.
How long do peppermint plants live?
Mint plants are perennials and can live for 5-10 years when planted in the ground. Potted mint plants can also last for more than 5 years when cared for properly. Every winter, the mint plant lies dormant and regrows in spring. Mint plants grown in water can survive for months with proper care.
How often should I water my peppermint plant?
Water mint plants twice a week with a thorough watering so that excess water trickles from the base of the pot or container. Mint plants require the soil to be evenly moist but not saturated to prevent wilting and avoid root rot. If the top inch of the soil feels dry, give your mint plants a good soak.
How do you care for an outdoor peppermint plant?
Growing Tips
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Plant in full sun to part shade.
- Keep plants in check through pruning and dividing.
Do peppermint plants spread?
Mint will spread from its underground roots, and can cover great distances and go under obstacles to get to where it wants to go, so keep that in mind when planting.
What does peppermint plants keep away?
Spearmint and peppermint are often noted for their ability to repel flies, fleas, and spiders in the garden.
Do peppermint plants repel spiders?
The unmistakable scent of mint is a great insect repellent, and can be very effective at preventing spiders from making your premises their home. There are plenty of mint varieties that work well to repel insects, but peppermint is considered the most potent choice.
Does peppermint plant repel mosquitoes?
Mint. Mint is yet another fragrant herb that has pest-fighting properties. Menthol, the active insect-fighting ingredient in mint and peppermint oil, has biocidal properties that help repel and control mites, mosquitoes and various other pests.
Do peppermint plants repel mice?
Plants that repel mice
Mint: Mint has been shown to repel mice. You can incorporate peppermint or spearmint into your flower beds.
How do you take care of a potted peppermint plant?
Indoor mint prefers fairly moist soil. In between thorough waterings allow the top inch (2.5 cm.) or so to become dry and then water again. Depending on if you are growing in a terra cotta pot versus plastic or glazed ceramic, and also on how much light you are giving your plant, the time in between watering will vary.
What is difference between mint and peppermint?
The main difference between mint and peppermint is that peppermint has the strongest flavour when compared to other members of the mint family. Mint refers to aromatic herbs produced by the species of the mint plant (Mentha). Peppermint is one such species.
How big do peppermint plants get?
Mint should grow to be 1 or 2 feet tall. Mint is a vigorous grower and needs to be contained or it will send out its runners and spread all over your garden. The key is to contain the plant’s roots. Whether it’s in the ground or above ground, plant mint in a pot.
Do you pick mint leaves from the top or bottom?
So, make sure you pick the smaller leaves on the top first. Doing so will not only help you enjoy more flavorful leaves, but it will also encourage new growth. With regular pruning, your mint plants will grow bushier and produce more flavorful foliage.
Does mint like sun or shade?
Mint grows best in full sun to partial shade, should be planted early in the growing season and is generally hardy to -20° F. Mint prefers moist soil conditions, but excess water will promote root and leaf diseases.
Does mint keep bugs away?
The pungent nature of mint deters bugs from making your home their home. Pests like ants, mosquitos, and mice will avoid mint plants whenever possible, and it can also help with other menaces like roaches, spiders, and flies.
Why are the leaves on my mint plant turning brown?
Your mint leaves may be turning brow because they have received too much water. They may also turn brown if infested with pests like aphids, cutworms, or thrips that suck the sap from them. It could also happen if the plant has outgrown its container.
How do you know if mint needs water?
Generally speaking, the best way to determine how often to water your mint plant is to check the top half-inch of soil for dampness. As a rule of thumb, if it’s dried out, give the mint plant some water. If it’s still damp or moist in the top half-inch, then no need to water the mint plant.