Mint is an herb that comes in many varieties, including spearmint, peppermint, chocolate mint and others. Out of the many, our favorites are spearmint and peppermint, appreciated both for their scent and their flavors.

Spearmint has a milder, sweeter taste, while peppermint has a stronger, sharper flavor due to a higher concentration of menthol. We typically grow spearmint more often because it has been more successful in our growing environment in the greenhouse and in our soil.

We grew mint both in the ground and in containers this year. As an added bonus, the plant odor helped to repel insects. Next season, we will definitely plant more of it around the “buffet” plants, such as peppers and leafy greens.

Something that surprised us was how quickly spearmint grew in the ground. We had to clip it back regularly to prevent it from overrunning other plants. We chose to let it run throughout the edge of our garden but if that is not your plan, consider growing it only in containers.

This herb is not grown just for adding flavor to food items and as pest repellants. It is also used in aromatherapy, and medicinally. Mint is believed to help with digestive issues, relax muscles and serves as a mild decongestant.

You can purchase mint plants but it is fairly easy to grow on your own. Get some viable seeds, drop them into good soil, add sunlight and water and your mint will thrive. When it comes time to harvest—-which can take at least six weeks growing seed—there will be a bounty of fresh herbs to eat, dry and/or share with others.

Check out the harvest of spearmint that we grew in a small container.!

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ColorBlindWork | People. Plants. Purpose. encourages growing your own food. We sell vegetable and flower starts, with an emphasis on herbs that are known for their antioxidant properties.