Every time I walk by my spearmint (Mentha spicata) plants, I grab a leaf and inhale. That scent is so fresh, it clears my thoughts. There are a variety of mint plants including peppermint, mojito mint, chocolate mint, applemint and orange mint but the one most often used when just the word “mint” is mentioned, is spearmint. Check zone hardiness for the other plants.
Spearmint
How to Grow:
- Plant in a sunny location - 6 hours minimum of sun.
- Don't fertilize.
- Keep soil moist. Mint likes water!
- Stand back. It's going to grow like crazy.
Mint (spearmint in particular) will take over if allowed to do so. You can plant in pots and sink them into the soil or pull errant plants, they spread by rhizomes. Peppermint will also spread, but more slowly.
Harvest:
- Pinch the newest leaves/stems for the freshest flavor.
- One-third of the plant must remain for vigor.
- Harvest in the morning.
How to Enjoy:
Nigella's Lamb:
- Roast lamb or beef shoulder until falling apart. (5 ½ lbs for 5 hours at 325º).
- Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Shred with 2 forks.
- Salt to taste.
- Finely chop one handful of mint leaves, add to shredded meat.
- Halve 1 Pomegranate.
- Whack 1st half with a wooden spoon to dislodge seeds. Juice the other half (just squeeze over meat).
Toss together and serve.
Erik's Mojito:
- Sprinkle one tbsp sugar over 3 mint sprigs in the bottom of a glass.
- Bruise - add ice.
- Add 4 oz. of vodka
- 2 oz grapefruit juice
- a splash of tonic
Stir and garnish with lime and mint.
The experts at Gertens are always available to answer your questions!
