Every vital mint shoot contains the concentrated growth power of an entire plant. So it's no surprise that propagation with cuttings is almost automatic. The following instructions show how to handle it correctly.
How to propagate mint by cuttings?
Mint can be easily propagated by cuttings by cutting it in June, either placing it in a glass of water with a piece of charcoal until roots form, or planting it directly in the bed - ideally with a minimum distance of 50 centimeters.
Cut cuttings at the right time
Shortly before flowering in June, not only the aroma content is at its highest level, but also the entire plant energy. Therefore, this time is recommended to cut the best cuttings. How to do it right:
- sharpen and disinfect the cutting tool
- Select strong head cuttings without flowers
- cut to a length of 15-20 centimeters
After each cutting has been defoliated in the lower half, it is perfectly prepared for further use.
Root cuttings in water
So that the young mint starts with an advantageous growth lead in the bed, we recommend rooting in a glass of water. To do this, place the prepared cuttings in a glass of water to which you add a piece of charcoal to prevent rot. In the warm, partially shaded spot you can experience first hand how many delicate root strands form. Ideally the water should be replaced every few days.
Plant cuttings in the bed immediately
Instead of taking the detour via the water glass, many hobby gardeners prefer to plant cuttings directly in the bed. Here's how to do it:
- Weed the soil thoroughly in a sunny to partially shaded location
- loose up the soil with a rake and optimize it with compost or granulated cattle manure
- drill small holes with a wooden stick so that half of the cutting can fit in them
If you want to breed several mints, the planting distance is at least 50 centimeters. Fill the soil to just below the first pair of leaves. Ideally, water from a spray bottle is used for watering so that the delicate plants are not immediately washed out again. Small wooden sticks give your pupils support in the first few weeks.
Tips & Tricks
Almost all mint species set out on a conquest through the garden with their sprawling root system. You can put a stop to this hustle and bustle by placing the cuttings in a pot and placing it in the ground. Alternatively, place a root barrier around each plant to a depth of 50 centimeters and within a radius of 30-40 centimeters.
