Growing Mountain Mint in the Garden Mountain mint grows best in zones 4 to 8. It prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade. Its water needs are not great and it tolerates drought well. You can start mountain mint from seed, planting outdoors when the last frost has passed, or you can use transplants.
- How do you plant mountain mint?
- Is mountain mint invasive?
- What is mountain mint used for?
- Should I cut back mountain mint?
- Is mountain mint a true mint?
- What grows well with mountain mint?
- Does mint like sun or shade?
- Is mountain mint safe for dogs?
- Is wild mint poisonous?
- Is Mint toxic to humans?
- Does mountain mint repel mosquitoes?
- Is all wild mint edible?
How do you plant mountain mint?
Growing from Seed: Direct sow into the garden in early spring, as soon as the soil is “workable.” Scatter or press seed lightly, but do not bury as it requires light to germinate. Alternatively, start seed indoors 6 weeks before the last frost.
Is mountain mint invasive?
muticum given the reputation of mints as aggressive spreaders in the garden; however, unlike true mints (Mentha species), blunt mountain mint is not invasive although it will slowly spread by rhizomes. Unwanted spreading of this species can be controlled by cutting of the underground rhizomes by a spade.
What is mountain mint used for?
The tea is used in herbal medicine for the treatment of menstrual disorders, indigestion, mouth sores and gum disease, colic, coughs, colds, chills and fevers. A strong decoction is said to be helpful poured over festering wounds. Crushed Mountain Mint flowers are placed on tooth ache and almost instantly kills pain.
Should I cut back mountain mint?
Regular pruning can help keep the plant better managed or you can grow in containers to minimize its spread. Thanks to this plant's strong minty aroma, mountain mint also functions well in the landscape as an insect repelling border plant around decks or porches.
Is mountain mint a true mint?
Mountain mint plants are not the same as true mints; they belong to a different family. But, they have a similar growth habit, appearance, and aroma, and they can be used like true mints. Mountain mint care is largely hands-off, and it will grow prolifically, so be careful where you plant it.
What grows well with mountain mint?
Good companion plants are Joe Pye Weed, Red Cardinal Flower, Great Blue Lobelia, Purple Cone Flower, and Black eyed Susan. Plant it with spring bloomers such as Alleghany Pachysandra, Barren Strawberry, Willow Blue Amsonia , ferns and sedges so you will be sure to have plants flowering all seasons.
Does mint like sun or shade?
Most will tolerate some shade, and the variegated types may require some protection from direct sun. For growing outdoors, plant one or two purchased plants (or one or two cuttings from a friend) about 2 feet apart in moist soil. One or two plants will easily cover the ground. Mint should grow to be 1 or 2 feet tall.
Is mountain mint safe for dogs?
While fresh mint can be good for your dog's health, artificial forms are another story. Breath mints, for example, often contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can be toxic for dogs. If you want to give your dog a mint-flavored treat, try your hand at homemade biscuits with a few easy ingredients.
Is wild mint poisonous?
Toxicity. Mint species, including wild mint, spearmint and peppermint, are nontoxic to dogs, according to the Continental Kennel Club. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that the only species of mint, in the genus Mentha, that is toxic to dogs is English pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium).
Is Mint toxic to humans?
Like many herbs, mint can adversely affect some people. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should not use mint in an attempt to soothe digestive issues. According to a 2019 review , mint commonly acts as a trigger for GERD symptoms. Taking peppermint oil in large doses can be toxic .
Does mountain mint repel mosquitoes?
Mountain mint's flowers feed many kinds of beneficial insects. Foliage: The leaves are a soft minty green and fragrant. They are said to repel mosquitoes and can be crushed and rubbed on the skin as a repellent.
Is all wild mint edible?
Edible Uses¹
The leaves of wild mint are edible, raw or cooked. Having a quite strong minty flavor with a slight bitterness, they are used as a flavoring in salads or cooked foods.