Ever heard about a mint with a hint of chocolate? Learn how to grow it easily with everything you need to know about Chocolate Mint Care.
Chocolate mint looks a lot like regular mint but it comes with a twist! The herb has a fantastic chocolaty aroma that makes it great for cocktails! Let’s have a look at all the details about Chocolate Mint Care.
Botanical Name: Mentha × piperita f. citrata ‘Chocolate’
Here are the best types of mint you must grow
Propagating Chocolate Mint
Like other mints, this herb is also very easy to grow from cuttings, and this way, you can multiply it easily. Just put cuttings in a shallow bowl filled with water and when they develop roots, transfer them into a small pot.
Best Pot Size to Grow Chocolate Mint
The herb will do well in a 6-8 inches pot. You just have to make sure that any container you are using, must be around 6-8 inches deep. It can be wide as mint loves to spread. You can also grow the herb in hanging baskets. Whatever material and pot you choose, just make sure it has a drainage hole at the bottom.
Requirements for Growing Chocolate Mint
Light
Chocolate Mint prefers indirect light to thrive well. If you have an east-facing window, nothing like it! Just make sure that you are not keeping the herb in the harsh afternoon sun for long. You can also keep it on a windowsill or a balcony.
Soil
Any rich potting mix would work for the Chocolate Mint. Make sure that the growing medium is well-draining. Adding a bit of organic matter at the time of planting will do wonders for the overall growth of the plant.
You can also use 1 part peat moss or coco peat, 1 part perlite, and 1 part sterile garden soil to make your own mix.
Water
Chocolate Mint loves to be in moist soil and thrives best in it. Make sure that you are watering the plant the moment the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch. Also, do not end up overwatering the plant as it will cause it to die.
Chocolate Mint Care
Fertilizer
Like other mints, fertilizing the plant too much will make it lose its flavor. Using a water-soluble all-purpose fertilizer, once every 3-4 months should be enough. Do mulch the top layer of the pot with compost or manure.
Pruning and Pinching
Pinch off the tips of the herb regularly. This will encourage it to grow more branches and become bushier. Snip away the dried branches regularly to keep the plant in shape.
Pests and Diseases
Mint is usually a problem-free plant. Just keep an eye on spider mites and aphids. You can knock them away using a neem oil solution or an insecticidal soap. To avoid diseases, avoid overcrowding the plant and make sure there is plenty of air circulation.
Harvesting
The best part about harvesting mint is it is very easy and if you take out leaves regularly, then you won’t even have to prune the plant, too! Pick off the sprigs or leaves fresh for desserts or cocktails.
Also, never let the flowers bloom and pinch them off to make sure the plant directs all its energy to grow a lush foliage.
