I no longer buy mint: I grow it on the balcony and it smells very strong

r balcony, windowsill, or countertop. And as a bonus, the smell of fresh mint infuses the air around your home, creating a pleasant, refreshing atmosphere.

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How to Grow Mint on Your Balcony:

If you’re ready to stop buying mint and start growing it yourself, here’s a simple guide to getting started:

Step 1: Choose the Right Container

Mint is known for its vigorous growth, which means it can spread quickly if not contained. I recommend using a container or pot to prevent it from overtaking your other plants. Make sure the container has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. A medium-sized pot (about 12 inches wide) works well for one plant.

Step 2: Select the Best Location

Mint thrives in partial sun but can tolerate some shade as well. On my balcony, I place my mint in an area where it gets 4-6 hours of sunlight each day, and it grows beautifully. If you don’t have direct sun on your balcony, don’t worry—mint will still grow well in partial or even full shade. Just be sure it’s in a spot where it won’t get too crowded.

Step 3: Use the Right Soil

Mint prefers well-drained, moist soil. I use a mix of potting soil and some compost to provide the necessary nutrients. Mint also appreciates slightly acidic soil, so ensure it’s not too alkaline. If you’re unsure, you can purchase soil that’s specifically formulated for herbs.

Step 4: Water Regularly

Mint loves water, so it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water it regularly, especially during hot weather, but make sure there’s good drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in water. Be mindful not to overwater, as mint doesn’t like to be waterlogged.

Step 5: Harvest Your Mint

One of the best parts of growing mint is the harvest. Once your mint plant is established, you can start harvesting the leaves. I like to snip off the leaves whenever I need them, and the plant keeps growing back. To encourage the plant to stay bushy and healthy, try to pinch back the stems regularly, especially when it begins to flower. This helps the plant focus its energy on producing more leaves rather than flowers.

Step 6: Watch It Grow!

Mint is a fast grower, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it fills up the pot. It spreads with underground runners, so if you’re not careful, it could spread beyond the container. If you’re growing mint in a container, this won’t be an issue—but if you’re growing it in the ground, you may want to consider using a barrier to keep it from spreading too far.

Ways to Use Fresh Mint:

Once your mint is growing strong, here are just a few ways you can use your fresh mint harvest:

• Mint Tea: Fresh mint leaves make a delightful and soothing herbal tea. Simply steep the leaves in hot water for a refreshing, caffeine-free drink.
• Smoothies: Add a few fresh mint leaves to your morning smoothie for a burst of flavor and a refreshing twist.
• Garnish for Dishes: Use fresh mint to garnish fruit salads, yogurt bowls, or even savory dishes like lamb and couscous.
• Mint Water: Add mint leaves to water or sparkling water for a naturally flavored drink. This is especially refreshing on hot days.
• Mint Sauces or Jams: Use your mint to make a homemade mint sauce for meats, or whip up some mint jelly or mint syrup to drizzle over desserts.

Final Thoughts:

Growing mint on my balcony has been a total game-changer. Not only do I have an endless supply of fresh mint for my culinary creations, but I also get to enjoy the wonderful scent it brings to my home. The best part is that it requires very little effort—just a little care, a good spot, and the right soil, and soon you’ll be harvesting mint like a pro.

So, if you’re tired of buying mint or want to enjoy a more sustainable and cost-effective option, I highly recommend growing it yourself. It’s a simple way to add flavor, fragrance, and a touch of green to your life—and once you experience the joy of fresh, homegrown mint, you’ll never want to buy it again!