Edibles – Herbs – Spearmint

Spearmint 

Botanical name: mentha spicata 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: up to 4 ft in height with up to a 5 ft spread 

Bloom time: summer 

Hardy zone: zones 3-10 

Flower color: white 

Foliage color: green 

Growth rate: can grow 1-3 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune as needed in the spring and summer months 

Propagation methods: propagate by seed sowing 

Landscape use: herbal garden, container plant 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: attracts pollinators, fragrant foliage, natural pest control, culinary herb

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: loam or sand 

Companion plants: oregano, marigold, parsley

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans but toxic for pets if ingested 

Invasive species: yes