A peppermint plant in the garden or on the balcony requires little care. If you have planted it in a favorable location, the plant will grow almost on its own. How to properly care for peppermint.
How do I properly care for my peppermint plant?
Proper care for peppermint plants includes adequate watering, economical use of organic fertilizer, partial shade, regular cutting and protection in winter. Pests and diseases should also be monitored.
How to water peppermint correctly?
Peppermint needs a relatively large amount of water to grow well. Keep the soil moist. Watering is particularly important on hot summer days.
However, avoid the water from pooling on the plant. Then the roots rot and the peppermint dies.
When keeping it in a pot, make sure there are large drainage holes so that excess water can drain away and avoid waterlogging.
Does the peppermint plant need fertilizer?
You should be careful when fertilizing. It is best to improve the soil with mature compost before sowing or planting. Then you don't need to fertilize later.
If the soil is very depleted, adding fertilizer can't hurt if you don't give it just before or during flowering. Only use organic fertilizers such as nettle manure. Peppermint does not receive chemical fertilizers.
Can peppermint be transplanted?
If the plant has become too big, you can divide it. However, it is better to immediately plant new seeds or new plants in the desired location.
When and how do you cut peppermint?
Shortly before flowering, cut the entire plant off close to the ground. A second cut is recommended shortly before winter rest. In between, you can cut the peppermint into shape at any time.
What pests attack peppermint plants?
- Mint Leaf Beetle
- Black-spotted cicadas
- Green Shield Beetle
- Flea beetles
What diseases do you need to pay attention to?
- Peppermint Rust
- Mildew
- Root and stem rot
- Verticillium wilt
- Leaf spot disease
How do you get peppermint through the winter?
Peppermint is hardy. Cut all stems just above the ground. To be on the safe side, you should cover the plant slightly if temperatures fall below minus 20 degrees.
Tips & Tricks
Peppermint doesn't like to be in direct sunlight. Plant it in a partially shaded spot where it is somewhat protected from the wind. To be on the safe side, create a root barrier to prevent the peppermint plant from spreading throughout the garden.
