If you love cooking or mixing cocktails, adding a few sprigs of fresh mint can make all the difference! Among the many types of mint, apple mint is particularly delightful for its sweet and fruity aroma, which pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Plus, it’s easy to grow! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the basics of how to grow apple mint in your garden. Including the best zones, soil preparation, light requirements, watering and fertilizing tips, and how to harvest and preserve your mint leaves.
Zone and Soil Prep
Zone type: Apple mint is a hardy and adaptable herb that can grow in USDA zones 3-11, meaning it can tolerate winter cold as low as -30°F (-34°C) and summer heat up to 100°F (38°C). However, it prefers mild temperatures and slightly moist soil, so if you live in a hot or dry region, make sure to give your mint some shade or extra water during the hottest hours of the day.
Soil preparation: Apple mint thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) and rich in organic matter. Before planting, loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of at least 6 inches, and amend it with compost, aged manure, or peat moss. Avoid compacted or poorly drained soil, which can lead to root rot or stunted growth.
Light, Water and Fertilizing your Apple Mint Plants
Light requirements: Apple mint prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on your climate. In cooler regions, it can tolerate more sun, while in warmer regions, it needs some protection from the scorching rays. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of sun per day, and avoid planting it in dense shade or crowded areas, as it can become leggy and prone to disease.
Water and fertilizer: Apple mint likes to be evenly moist, but not soggy or waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture. Mulch around your plants with a layer of straw, leaves, or pine needles to retain moisture and suppress weeds. As for fertilizer, apple mint doesn’t need much, but a light feeding of balanced organic fertilizer in early spring can help promote healthy growth and flavor.
Harvesting Your Apple Mint
The best time to harvest apple mint is in mid-morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Pinch off the top 1/3 of each stem, including the leaves and young buds, using clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors. This encourages branching and bushiness, and prevents the plant from becoming too tall or spindly. Avoid pruning more than 1/2 of the plant at once, as it can weaken the root system and stress the plant. You can harvest apple mint throughout the growing season, but the flavor is most intense before the plant flowers.
Growing Apple Mint in a Pot
For those who do not have garden space or want to keep their mint within accessible reach, container gardening is an excellent option. Here’s how to grow apple mint in a pot:
Pot Selection: Choose a pot that is at least 8-10 inches in diameter and has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Terracotta, ceramic, or even plastic pots can be used, but keep in mind that terracotta can dry out faster, while plastic retains moisture longer.
Soil Mix: Utilize a well-draining potting mix, preferably one that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) and rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, compost, and perlite is ideal for facilitating proper drainage and providing nutrition.
Planting: Place some gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pot for added drainage, then fill the pot with soil leaving about two inches from the top. Plant the apple mint in the center of the pot, making sure the root ball is covered and the leaves are above the soil surface. Gently firm the soil around the plant and water thoroughly.
Placement: Position the pot in a location where it can receive around 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. If you live in a warmer climate, you might need to move the pot to a shaded area during the hottest part of the day.
Watering: Water the pot regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but never soggy. You might need to water more often in summer or if the pot is made of terracotta.
Harvesting: Similar to garden-grown mint, you can pinch off the top 1/3 of each stem for your culinary needs. Remember not to overharvest and allow the plant to recover and grow back after each harvest.
Growing Apple Mint Indoors
Growing apple mint indoors is a great way to have fresh mint on hand throughout the year, regardless of the weather. Here’s how to do it:
Select a Suitable Spot: Find a sunny spot in your home that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. An east or west-facing window is often a good choice. If you don’t have enough natural light, consider using a grow light.
Choose the Right Container: As with outdoor pots, choose a container that is at least 8-10 inches in diameter and has good drainage. Place a saucer beneath the pot to catch any excess water.
Prepare Your Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) and rich in organic matter. A combination of peat moss, compost, and perlite works well.
Plant Your Mint: Plant your apple mint in the pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is covered and the leaves are above the soil surface. Firm the soil gently around the plant and water thoroughly.
Care for Your Mint: Water your mint regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In winter, when indoor air can be dry, mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity.
Harvest Regularly: Harvest your indoor mint just as you would outdoor mint, pinching off the top third of the stems as needed. This will encourage the plant to become bushier and produce more leaves. It’s best to harvest in the morning, when the plant’s oils are at their peak.
Remember, growing apple mint indoors requires a bit more attention than outdoor cultivation, but the rewards are well worth it. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh apple mint year-round!
Happy Gardening!
Growing apple mint is a rewarding and low-maintenance way to add a fragrant and versatile herb to your garden. By following these tips for zone types, soil preparation, light requirements, watering and fertilizing, and harvest, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of delicious and aromatic mint leaves all year round. Whether you use them for cooking, tea, or cocktails, apple mint is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests! So why not give it a try?
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post page for more growing tips on growing Herbs, African Violets, bulbs and how to plant them, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Container Gardening and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!