What is mint, what is it good for and how do you grow it at home?
Mint (Mentha suaveolens) is one of the best-known and most widely used plants in the world. It is famous for its refreshing scent and flavour, and it is used in cooking, drinks, natural medicine and cosmetics.
As well as enhancing teas, cocktails and dishes, mint is rich in menthol, vitamins A and C, iron and manganese. It has calming, digestive and antibacterial effects, which is why it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Quick facts
- Germination time: 10–15 days
- Germination temperature: 18–24 °C
- Time to harvest: 70–90 days
- Primary effects: calming, digestive, antibacterial
- Vitamins/minerals: A, C, iron, manganese
- Effect on the body: eases digestion, calms tension, freshens breath
Growing mint at home
Mint is a rewarding, hardy plant that can be grown in the garden, on a balcony or indoors. It does best in partial shade, with constant moisture and a well-drained growing medium. Grown in smart gardens, it provides a constant supply of fresh leaves with no need for complicated care.
Planting mint from seed or seedlings
- Sow the seeds shallowly in a light growing medium or use our smart soils with seeds.
- Maintain even moisture and provide plenty of light.
- Mint can also be grown from cuttings, which root easily in water.
- In the garden it is best planted in containers, as it spreads quickly.
Growing in the Simply and Aurelia smart gardens
Our SIMPLY and AURELIA smart gardens let mint grow automatically, stress-free and without daily watering.
With controlled moisture and light conditions, the leaves stay aromatic and fresh all year round – ideal for teas, cocktails, smoothies and cooking recipes.
How to harvest mint so it keeps growing
- Regularly pinch off the top leaves and shoot tips.
- Do not pick too much at once – leave at least a third of the plant.
- It is best harvested in the morning, when the concentration of essential oils is at its highest.
Common problems and solutions
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
| Weak growth | Too little light or nutrients | Increase the light, add nutrients |
| Yellow leaves | Too much water or poor drainage | Reduce watering, improve the growing medium |
| Loss of aroma | Too little sun | Move the plant to a brighter spot |
| Pests | Aphids, mites | Use natural repellents or soapy water |
| Mould | Too much moisture, poor ventilation | Increase airflow, reduce moisture |
The difference between mint and similar plants
- Mint (Mentha suaveolens): mild, refreshing aroma, widely used in cooking and drinks.
- Peppermint (Mentha × piperita): stronger menthol flavour, often used in teas and medicinal preparations.
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): citrus aroma, used for relaxation and teas.
How to store mint
- Fresh in water: keep the stems in a glass of water for a few days.
- Freezing: chop the leaves and freeze them in ice cubes with water.
- Drying: dry the leaves in the shade and store them in airtight containers.
- Mint syrup: boil the leaves in water with sugar and keep as an addition to drinks.
Conclusion
Mint is one of the most versatile plants – used in cooking, drinks and natural medicine, while filling your space with freshness and fragrance. With the SIMPLY and AURELIA smart gardens, you can have it fresh all year round – hassle-free and always to hand.
