15 of the Best Mint Varieties to Grow at Home
With its bright, fresh flavor and zesty fragrance, mint has long been a favorite herb loved for its versatility in the garden and in the kitchen – and there are plenty of attractive varieties to choose from.
In the kitchen, the leaves and flowers have bright flavors that are sweet and cooling, and widely used as a garnish, in hot and cold beverages, and to flavor candies, cocktails, desserts, jellies, mocktails, salads, sauces, and vegetables.
The various species and cultivars of the Mentha genus have aromatic, dark green leaves and develop terminal spikes of small flowers in shades of mauve, pink, purple, and white that are highly attractive as ground covers, in kitchen potagers, or in garden planters.
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Hardy and vigorous, Mentha varieties are easily cultivated and spread readily via runners, forming thick, fragrant clumps when allowed to grow freely.
However, some gardeners find their robust spread to be a bit too vigorous and keep them in check by planting in containers or bordered within landscape barriers or raised beds.
Most varieties require similar growing conditions of full to partial sun with moist, humus rich, and well-draining soil. You can read more about how to cultivate mint in our growing guide.
They aren’t bothered by deer as their strong scent is a deterrent to the munching herbivores!
Many varieties have similar flavors and fragrances, but each has its own unique subtleties and characteristics – so be sure to choose the types that suit your personal tastes for cooking and growing.
Are you ready for the cool, sweet flavors of your own refreshing
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