Spearmint (Mentha Spicata)
Spearmint (Mentha Spicata)
Spearmint, an herb with a unique aroma and many uses! Mint is the most popular aromatic plant of the Mediterranean along with basil and is found in almost every garden, yard and balcony of Greek homes. The mint plant is perennial and evergreen with square stems, very fragrant leaves and flowers. Spearmint is a type of mint used primarily for flavoring food and drinks, as well as a tonic and stomachic herb. In the garden it can be planted in clumps or as a single plant, and is also an excellent choice of plant for a rock garden together with other aromatic plants. Spearmint has no particular soil requirements, as long as it ensures constant moisture and good drainage. Incorporating compost and well-digested manure when transplanting mint into the soil contributes to its better growth. Spearmint thrives in sunny areas, where the leaves give it a high content of essential oils, as long as it is watered more often.
Spearmint needs light and frequent watering that ensures the necessary moisture to give us lush vegetation and cool foliage. Especially in the summer months and if the Spearmint is in strong sunny positions for many hours, it may be necessary to water daily. For the period of spring and autumn, the mint is watered every 2-3 days. Regarding fertilization, Spearmint has low nutrient requirements, especially when planted in fertile soil. Adding and incorporating organic nitrogen fertilizer once a month during spring and fall helps Spearmint grow and keep its foliage healthy and green. Spearmint must be pruned very severely after flowering, in the fall, to show strong growth again. By gradually cutting the leaves of the Spearmint during its growth period in order to enjoy them, we are actually doing an “informal” pruning, which helps to keep our Spearmint full of vitality and in a solid form.