The chocolate mint enriches the kitchen with its aromatic leaves. Mentha x piperita “Chocolate” combines a delicate chocolate aroma with a hint of mint. If care is not taken properly, the leaves taste bland. The intense aroma only develops under certain conditions.
How do I care for chocolate mint properly?
To properly care for the chocolate mint, plant it in a sunny to partially shaded location in nutrient-rich, humus-rich soil. Water regularly, avoid waterlogging and fertilize sparingly. Cut the mint during the growing phase and protect it from frost in winter.
Soil and location
The chocolate mint can be planted in a full sun location if the soil is sufficiently moist. Partially shaded places are also suitable. The culinary herb feels less comfortable in the shade. When there is a lack of light, the plants develop only a few essential oils, so the leaves hardly taste like chocolate.
The perfect substrate:
- normal garden soil with humus content
- Sand ensures good permeability
- nutrient-rich
Pouring
In order for the culinary herb to thrive optimally, an adequate water supply is important. Chocolate mint has a high water requirement and is sensitive to dryness. Check the substrate regularly and ensure that the soil is always slightly moist. Waterlogging should be prevented. Accumulated water often becomes a problem with potted plants.
Fertilize
If the soil has humic properties, additional fertilization is not necessary. An excess of nutrients can affect the aroma. On sandy soils, the chocolate mint enjoys a regular supply of special herbal fertilizers (€6.00 on Amazon), which you administer at intervals of four to six weeks. In spring you can incorporate some compost into the substrate. Alternatively, we recommend adding organic fertilizers such as horn shavings.
Cutting
Chocolate mint is regularly pruned during the growth phase so that it develops new branches and fresh leaves. Pruning measures ensure that the leaves develop a fuller aroma. The plant tends to go wild if not pruned regularly. A vigorous pruning is necessary in autumn or spring. The plant is rejuvenated and then sprouts more vigorously.
Wintering
The chocolate mint can only tolerate slightly sub-zero temperatures down to -10 °C. Protect the plant with a thick layer of pine branches or straw. In harsh winter months with double-digit temperatures below zero, you should not leave the plant outdoors, but dig it up and put it in a pot. Warm wintering on the windowsill is possible. During the winter months the aroma of the leaves is significantly weaker.
