Mint
Picking the Right Mint for You
Mint is a must-have in any garden, offering vibrant foliage, aromatic leaves, and a wide range of uses, from refreshing teas to flavorful culinary creations. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of greenery to your patio or want a reliable ground cover, there’s a mint variety to suit every need.
Mint is an easy-to-grow perennial that thrives in most climates, including Colorado. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full sun. Keep in mind that mint spreads quickly, so consider planting it in containers or a designated garden bed to prevent it from taking over. With proper care, mint provides a lush harvest year after year.
One of the added benefits of growing mint is its ability to attract pollinators like bees, which help support a healthy garden ecosystem. At the same time, mint is deer and rabbit resistant, making it a reliable choice in areas where wildlife might otherwise nibble your plants.
Mint is also an excellent option for small-space gardening. Compact and productive, most varieties thrive in containers, raised beds, or small garden plots. With minimal care, mint can provide a bountiful harvest throughout the growing season, perfect for novice and experienced gardeners alike.
Whether you’re creating a fragrant herb garden, a soothing tea collection, or a vibrant landscape feature, mint has a variety that’s just right for you. With its ability to thrive in small spaces, attract pollinators, and resist deer and rabbits, mint is a hardworking herb that rewards you with beauty, aroma, and flavor all season long.
Mint Varieties to Explore
Peppermint - A classic choice with a strong, refreshing flavor and aroma. Peppermint thrives in moist soil and grows up to 24 inches tall. Ideal for teas, desserts, and garnishes, it’s a versatile addition to any herb garden.
Spearmint- Known for its milder, sweeter flavor, spearmint grows 18–24 inches tall. It’s perfect for cooking, cocktails like mojitos, and fresh salads.
Mint Julep- This spearmint variety is extremely popular for sauces, jellies, teas, fruit salads, and, of course, mint julep cocktails. Growing 12–18 inches tall with a spread of up to 3 feet, it attracts pollinators like bees and is resistant to rabbits and deer.
Mojito Mint- The authentic herb used in mojitos, this Cuban native mint (Mentha x villosa) grows 12 inches tall and wide. It offers a milder, more nuanced flavor compared to regular spearmint, making it ideal for cocktails and other refreshing beverages.
Chocolate Mint- With a hint of cocoa in its aroma, this sterile peppermint relative grows 12 inches tall and spreads via underground runners. It’s excellent for desserts, teas, and as a fragrant addition to your garden.
Pineapple Mint- This variegated mint variety features creamy white and green leaves with a fruity scent. Growing up to 12 inches tall, it’s a beautiful ornamental plant that’s also great for culinary use.
Apple Mint- With its subtle apple-like aroma, this mint grows 18–24 inches tall and is perfect for salads, jellies, and beverages. Its fuzzy leaves add texture to your garden.
Corsican Mint- A low-growing, creeping variety, Corsican mint stays under 6 inches tall and makes an excellent ground cover. Its tiny leaves pack a strong minty flavor, perfect for flavoring desserts and beverages.
Orange Mint- This mint offers a citrusy twist, with a tangy aroma and flavor. Growing 18–24 inches tall, it’s a great choice for teas and cocktails.
