Fresh mint is indispensable both in mint chutneys and raita during winter meals, as well as for giving dishes a special taste and feeling of freshness. However, it often happens that mint supplies run out, and you have to buy small bunches at the market, which sometimes spoil if there are too many.
If you face such a problem, we will tell you how easy it is to grow mint at home. You do not need to buy seeds or acquire a seedling from a nursery. It is enough to take one green and fresh stem bought at the market to grow an abundant harvest of mint that will delight you all winter without requiring much effort.
How to grow mint: step-by-step instructions
First, you should choose a mint stem that looks green, fresh, and sturdy. It should not have spots, rot, or signs of insects. The ideal length of such a stem is about 10–15 centimeters.
After choosing the stem, place it in a glass of water. In about 7–10 days, small white roots will begin to appear on it. As soon as the roots become visible, transplant the stem into a potted soil.
What kind of pot and soil to choose for mint?
Since mint is a fast-growing plant, growing it in a pot is quite simple. It is recommended to use a pot with a depth of 8 to 12 inches. There must be drainage holes at the bottom of the pot to prevent the accumulation of excess water, which can lead to root rot.
As for the soil, a mixture that retains moisture but also allows excess water to drain easily is best for mint. To prepare such a mixture, you can mix 40% garden soil, 40% manure fertilizer or compost, and 20% coconut fiber or sand.
Protect from strong sun: morning sun is better
Mint does not require constant exposure to scorching sun. For good growth, it is enough for the plant to receive about 3–6 hours of morning sun daily. After this, it is better to place the pot in a semi-shaded area. You can put the mint pot on a balcony, windowsill, or in a place where morning sun falls. Too little light will weaken the plant, while intense sun can damage its leaves.
Water only when the soil dries out. It is important to maintain slight moisture in the soil, but not to allow waterlogging in the pot. Overwatering can damage the roots. To help retain moisture, you can lay dry leaves or a thin layer of grass on top.
What to do to keep the plant lush
If you want the mint to be denser and greener, regularly perform light pruning of the upper young shoots. Also, remove flowers if they appear, as this will direct the plant's nutrients towards forming new leaves and branches. When the plant has grown well, you can cut the stems with leaves using sharp scissors, making the cut slightly above the leaf node. This stimulates the appearance of new side shoots.
Fresh homemade mint is useful not only for chutney but also for raita, salads, herbal tea, and various snacks. In winter, when preparing dishes such as paratha, pakora, yogurt, or chaat, you can use fresh mint from the pot. Thus, instead of throwing away a small stem of mint bought at the market, you can use it to create a plant that will provide you with fresh mint in the future.