Spearmint (Mentha spicata), as with all mint plants, should be planted in deep to shallow bottomless containers sunk in the ground, or above the ground. Plants can become highly invasive when planted to grow freely in the garden. All mints also prefer, and thrive, in cool, moist spots in partial shade, though they will tolerate full sun. Harvesting of mint leaves can be done at anytime. Fresh mint leaves should be used immediately or stored up to a couple of days in plastic bags within a refrigerator.

Height: 1' to 1' 6" Landscape Usages: Containers / Planters, Outdoor Living Areas Fragrances: Fragrant Foliage Sun Exposure: Morning Sun, Mostly Shade, Afternoon Sun, Partial Shade, Mostly Sun Resistant To: Deer Resistant, Disease, Heat, Insect Soil Needs: Fertile, Loamy, Potting Mix, Moist / Well Drained Culinary Usages: Jellies / Preserves, Drinks / Teas / Juices, Candies, Garnish, Oil / Vinegars, Beef / Lamb, Desserts

Spread: 2' to 3' Attracts: Visual Attention, Butterflies Characteristics: Foliage, Flower Growth Rate: Fast, Very Fast Colors: Purple, Pink Foliage Color: Green Seasons of Bloom: Summer Blooms Type: Herb Water Needs: Average Theme Gardens: Butterfly, Cottage USDA Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

Spearmint Plant Feeding Instructions

Lightly feed your mint plants at time of planting with organic compost or an organic plant fertilizer, and then on an as needed basis throughout the season. Always use an organic plant food on plants you intend to eat!

Spearmint Plant Pruning Instructions

Grow mint plants in bottomless containers either sunk in the ground, or above ground. To create vigorous and bushy mint plant growth it is best to pinch back the tips of young plants. Every three years the mint plants should be divided and re-potted in fresh soil and compost to maintain healthy growth. Harvesting of mint leaves can be done at anytime, and take as much as you want. Fresh mint leaves should be used immediately or stored up to a couple of days in plastic bags within a refrigerator. Fresh leaves can also be frozen in ice cube trays. Dried mint leaves should be stored in an airtight container placed in a cool, dark, dry area.

Spearmint Plant Pest Instructions

Mint plants have no serious problems with pest's or diseases. Actually, mints repel insect pests while attracting beneficial insects such as butterflies!