Growing Mint in Your Garden: Tips for Making Refreshing Ice Tea and Mojitos"

Photo by Mae Mu on Unsplash

It's time to get our gardens going. We're starting with our herb gardens and because Cinco de Mayo is coming up - we're thinking mint for mojitos.

Mint is a versatile herb that is easy to grow and has a wide range of culinary applications. It's a great addition to any garden and is especially useful for making refreshing drinks like ice tea and mojitos. In this blog post, we will provide some tips and tricks for growing mint in your garden, and share some ideas for using it in your favorite summer beverages.

Growing Mint in Your Garden

Mint is a hardy herb that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for growing it in your garden:

1. Choose the right location: Mint prefers partial shade and moist soil, so choose a spot in your garden that gets some shade during the day and has well-draining soil.

2. Plant in a container: Mint can be an aggressive grower, so planting it in a container can help to control its spread. Choose a container with good drainage and fill it with a high-quality potting mix. Or, just let it run wild if you have the space. It smells great when the dog runs through it or when it sneaks onto the lawn and the lawnmower catches it :)

3. Water regularly: Mint likes to be kept moist, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

4. Fertilize occasionally: Mint doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can help to promote healthy growth.

Using Mint in Your Drinks

Once your mint is growing, you can start using it to make delicious summer drinks. Here are a few ideas:

1. Mint Ice Tea: To make mint ice tea, steep your favorite tea (black, green, or herbal) in hot water, and then add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the pot. Let the tea and mint steep together for several minutes, then strain the tea and serve over ice.

2. Mojitos: To make a classic mojito, muddle fresh mint leaves and sugar in the bottom of a glass, then add lime juice and rum. Top with soda water and ice, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

3. Mint Lemonade: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint to your favorite lemonade recipe for a refreshing twist on a classic drink.

4. Mint Smoothies: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to your favorite smoothie recipe for a refreshing and healthy boost.

Mint is an easy-to-grow herb that is perfect for adding flavor and freshness to your summer drinks. By following these tips for growing mint in your garden and using it in your favorite beverages, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year long. So go ahead and plant some mint in your garden today, and enjoy the delicious flavors it has to offer!