Mint is a beloved herb among both novice and experienced gardeners. This robust plant is easy to grow and thrives in containers, making it perfect for patios, kitchen entrances, or balconies.
For optimal growth, mint should be planted in pots to manage its spread. While it can flourish in garden borders, it tends to become invasive. Generally preferring a mix of sun and shade, mint thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soil.
With countless mint varieties available, you're sure to become enchanted with this herb. Here, we highlight a selection of unique and enticing options to consider for your garden this year.
Apple mint, Mentha suaveolens, boasts a strong fragrance and vigorous growth.
Top Mint Varieties to Cultivate
With numerous mint types to choose from, each offers distinct flavors and aromas. Whether you're looking for culinary herbs or decorative flower spikes, consider selecting unique mint varieties to elevate your dishes and drinks.
Pineapple Mint
Pineapple mint, Mentha suaveolens 'Variegata', is ideal for cooking, offering a tropical twist.
Pineapple mint features a tropical flavor that must be tasted to be appreciated. Its striking white-green variegated leaves and unique scent make it a must-have for your garden this year.
This variety thrives in full sun or partial shade, requiring regular watering to maintain moist soil during summer heat.
Harvest mint by plucking leaves as needed, perfect for drinks, jellies, or ice cream during gatherings.
As older mint plants can become less appealing, it's wise to propagate new plants from cuttings after a few years to keep your garden fresh.
Purchase pineapple mint plants from Burpee.
Orange Mint
Orange mint, Mentha x piperita f. citrata 'Orange', features a delightful citrus aroma.
Known as eau de cologne or bergamot mint, orange mint, Mentha x piperita f. citrata 'Orange', offers a refreshing citrus scent that enhances any outdoor space.
According to an herb expert, the glossy leaves deliver a pronounced citrus flavor. Plus, this mint produces small purple flowers throughout the summer.
As a hardy perennial, orange mint can thrive in various regions, making it suitable for your herb garden. It prefers part shade and well-draining soil, benefiting from regular watering.
Orange mint's citrus notes shine in teas, fruit punches, and salads. Dried leaves also add character to potpourri.
Find orange mint plants available online at Burpee.
Chocolate Peppermint
Chocolate peppermint, Mentha × piperita, features dark green leaves.
Chocolate peppermint, Mentha × piperita, stands out among peppermint varieties for its slightly sweeter and bolder flavor, making it a favorite for culinary experts.
The plant showcases striking green leaves with purple undersides, adding beauty to any dish. Additionally, chocolate peppermint is known for deterring wasps, perfect for outdoor dining.
Keep these plants well-watered in spring and summer, ensuring the soil stays moist but not overly saturated. For fresh growth, trim stems back a few inches after flowering.
Whether brewing refreshing tea or enhancing desserts, this mint variety adds a delightful twist to your culinary adventures.
Order chocolate peppermint plants online at Burpee.
Kentucky Colonel Mint is another aromatic option, ideal for the classic southern drink. Menta spicata thrives in full sun and is hardy in US hardiness zones 5 to 9. Its fragrant leaves are perfect for jelly, herbal teas, and iced beverages.
Mint is a vital addition to any herb garden or aromatic pot collection. With so many intriguing varieties available, consider growing one of the unique options we've presented. For further herb inspiration, check out our guide on growing herbs indoors.
