(Mentha spicata)(Perennial; USDA Zones 4-8) The sweetest of all mints with a less aggressive flavor than peppermint and a fruity undertone. Spearmint produces aromatic, bright green, serrated leaves throughout the season for your culinary exploits. Enjoy leaves and flowers fresh, dried, frozen, or preserved in salt, sugar, alcohol or oil. Fresh spearmint tea is a summer delight. Used medicinally for headaches, indigestion, and as a sleep aid. Attracts beneficial insects and repels pests such as aphids, cabbage moths and flea beetles.
Growing Notes
Starting indoors: Sow 8-10 weeks before your last frost. Tamp seeds lightly into soil surface; cover lightly no more than 1/4” deep. Keep moist until germination. Days to Germ: 10-16 days at 65-75°F. Transplant when have four true leaves. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost with 18-24" spacing. Direct seed: Direct seed in late spring after danger of frost has passed; sow 1 seed per inch. Tamp lightly into soil surface; keep moist until germinates. Thin for stronger stand 18-24" apart in rows 2' apart. Can be invasive; best in containers or contained spaces.