Not all types and varieties of mint can withstand frosty temperatures unconditionally. Join us here on a foray through the diverse range of hardy mints. These species and varieties survive without winter protection.
Which types of mint are hardy?
Winter-hardy mint species and varieties that do not require winter protection include apple mint (Mentha suaveolens), water mint (Mentha aquatica), Moroccan mint (Mentha spicata var. crispa 'Nane'), strawberry mint (Mentha species) and Russian mint (Mentha species).
Greeve Frost cannot do any damage here
As mints, mints are classic representatives of perennial, herbaceous growing herbaceous plants. This name implies that after the first frost the above-ground shoots wilt. The underground rhizomes, on the other hand, remain in the ground to sprout again the following spring. The following species and varieties cope with overwintering without significant protective measures:
- Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens): a powerful variety with a height of up to 150 cm
- Water mint (Mentha aquatica): the ideal variety for swampy areas, such as ponds or streams
- Moroccan mint (Mentha spicata var. crispa 'Nane'): one of the most popular varieties, ideal for freezing
- Strawberry mint (Mentha species): delicate in growth, thrives wonderfully in pots
- Russian mint (Mentha species): robust, frost-resistant, resistant to mint rust
The lemon mint (Mentha × gentilis var. citrata) is making progress in the ranking of the best winter-hardy mints. Not to be confused with the popular lemon balm, which belongs to a different genus.
Don't miss out on winter protection in the pot
The frost hardiness of a mint may be so pronounced; Every plant in a pot on the balcony needs protection during the winter. Since the only thing between the bitterly cold winds and the root ball is the very thin container wall, the rhizomes are in danger of freezing. If there are temperature fluctuations, this stress tears apart the tissue cells and the mint dies. So please take these precautions:
- Place planters on wood in front of the protective south wall of the house
- cover with bubble wrap or jute
- cover the substrate with sawdust (€39.00 on Amazon), needle twigs or straw
If winter comes with frost, the plants risk drying out. Prudent hobby gardeners water the hardy mints on a frost-free day.
Tips & Tricks
The red raripila mint (Mentha × smithiana 'Rubra') adds subtle touches of color in the herb and scent garden. The hardy variety impresses with red stems covered in dark green leaves. From July onwards, a purple flower reinforces the high ornamental value of this mint. 'Rubra' is an enrichment for both sweet dishes and scented potpourris.