Overview
Spearmint ( Mentha spicata ) , with its refreshful aroma and various culinary uses , is a beloved herbaceous plant that thrives in many garden . To defend its muscularity and maximise its flavor , regular pruningis essential . Thiscomprehensive guidewill provide you with a footprint - by - step approach path to pruning spearmint , secure a healthy and productive plant .
Benefits of Pruning Spearmint
Pruning Mentha spicata offers legion benefits , including :
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
1. Determine the Best Time to Prune
The optimum time to prune Mentha spicata is in the fountain orearly summer , before theplant beginsto flower . Avoid pruning in the fall or winter , as this can dampen the plant and make it more susceptible to frigid impairment .
2. Gather the Necessary Tools
You will needsharp pruning shearsor aclean knifefor this job . ensure the tools are disinfected to keep the cattle farm of diseases .
3. Remove Old or Damaged Leaves
set out by removing any old , yellow , ordamaged leaf . apply yourpruning shearsto cut theleaves closeto the root .
4. Prune Back Stems
Once the old leaves have been removed , you canprune backthe stem . undercut thestems backto about 6 - 8 inch in length . This will encourage Modern ontogenesis and preclude the flora from becoming leggy .
5. Pinch Back Tips
cabbage back the tips of the stems will encourage branching and create a morebushy plant . utilise your fingernails orpruning shearsto remove the top 1 - 2 inches of the root tips .
6. Remove Flowers (Optional)
If you want to prevent the plant fromsetting seedsand redirect its DOE towardsleaf yield , you may remove the flowers as they appear . edit out theflower stalks backto the base of the works .
7. Water and Fertilize
After pruning , water theplant deeplyto further new increment . you could also fertilize the plant with abalanced fertilizerto supply it with the food it needs to convalesce .
Ongoing Maintenance
veritable pruning is essential for keep a tidy andproductive Mentha spicata plant . Here are some ongoing alimony pourboire :
Tips for Harvesting
Toharvest spearmint leave of absence , simply cutthe stanch at the base of the flora . harvesting leaves regularly to encourage young growth and preserve the works ’s flavor .
Creative Uses for Spearmint
Spearmint forget arehighly versatileand can be used in a variety of culinary and non - culinary applications :
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How often should I trim spearmint?A : Prune Mentha spicata regularly , take onetime leave of absence and stems as they come out . Pinch back the peak of new growth to encourage branch . Q : Can Iprune spearmintin the fall or winter?A : Avoid pruning spearmintin the drop or winter , as this can weaken the industrial plant and make it more susceptible to stale damage . Q : What should I do with the pruned leaves?A : you may apply thepruned leavesin salads , Camellia sinensis , dessert , and drink , or add them to pastiche or sachet for a bracing scent .
