Spearmint – MIg

Product Summary

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a classic perennial herb prized for its fresh, sweet and refreshing mint aroma. It produces abundant green leaves on vigorous plants and is one of the most versatile culinary mints, perfect for tea, salads, sauces, desserts, drinks and Middle Eastern dishes. It is also an excellent herb for attracting pollinators when allowed to flower.

Description

Spearmint is a vigorous, easy-to-grow perennial herb with bright green, slightly textured leaves and a naturally sweet mint fragrance. Unlike stronger peppermint, spearmint has a milder, sweeter flavor, making it particularly versatile in the kitchen.

The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and used fresh or dried. Spearmint is especially popular for fresh mint tea, tabbouleh, salads, sauces, yogurt dishes, chutneys, desserts and refreshing beverages.

Plants can spread rapidly through underground runners, so growing Spearmint in a container or dedicated garden area is often recommended to keep it under control.

When to Plant in the UAE

Start indoors: August
Transplant outdoors: October

Starting seeds indoors in August allows seedlings to establish before being moved outdoors in October, when temperatures become more suitable for vigorous mint growth.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light: Full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade can be beneficial during warmer weather.
• Soil: Rich, fertile and consistently moist soil with good drainage.
• Sowing depth: Very shallow; lightly press seeds onto the surface and cover only lightly.
• Germination: Approximately 10–20 days under suitable conditions.
• Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during warm weather. Avoid allowing plants to dry out completely.
• Feeding: Add compost before planting and use a light balanced fertilizer during active growth.
• Containment: Consider growing in pots or raised beds because Spearmint can spread vigorously.
• Harvest: Pick young leaves and growing tips regularly for the best flavor. Avoid removing too much foliage at once.
• Pruning: Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming overly leggy.
• Flowers: Allow some stems to flower to attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.
• Uses: Tea, salads, tabbouleh, sauces, yogurt dishes, desserts, drinks and fresh garnishes.