Renee's Garden Spearmint Italian (Heirloom)

Planting: Seed Starting: In early spring, 4 - 6 weeks before late frost, start seeds indoors in a container of moistened soil mix. Sow thinly but do not cover. Provide a good light source until ready to transplant when seedlings are large enough to handle. Container Growing: Grow only in containers because mint spreads rampantly by underground runners, quickly becoming a nuisance in the garden. When warm spring weather arrives, sow seeds thinly (but do not cover) in containers of pre-moistened new soil mix in full sun. Keep evenly moist but not soggy. When several inches tall, thin or transplant seedlings 6 - 8" apart in pots at least 16" across and 12" deep.

Growing: Mint is long-lived and gets over-crowded easily. Divide plants into 4 quarters every spring, replanting one quarter of hte original clump into a pot of fresh soil mix. Replant extra clumps in new pots or give away.

Harvest & Use: Harvest frequently to encourage new growth. Snip sprigs of leaves in the morning when the aromatic oils are strongest. Use in drinks and sprinkle chopped mint over green and fresh fruit salads. Air dry by hanging branches in a warm, well-ventilated area, then package airtight.