Mint
Hardy herbaceous perinnial
1 inch - 3 feet

Cultivation

Site	Partial shade or sun.
Soil	Moist, well drained, alkaline, rich in nutrients.
Propagation	Take root or stem cuttings, or divide mint in spring and autumn. In summer, root stem cuttings in water. Sow in spring.
Growing	Thin or transplant to 12" apart into large pots or polythene bags to restrain invasive roots. Remove all flowering tops to prevent cross pollination between species.
Harvesting	Pick leaves just before flowering.
Preserving	Dry, freeze, or infuse leaves in oil or vinegar.

Uses

Decorative	Leaf - Use in herb posies and invalid bouquets.
Culinary	Leaf - Infuse either individual or blended mints as a refreshing tea. Use for mint sauce, vinegar, syrups and with chocolate in rich deserts. Crystallize as a sweet for decoration. Add fresh leaves to new potatoes, peas, fruit salads, drinks and punches.
Household	Whole plant - (Spearmint and peppermint) Grow near roses to deter aphids. Leaf - Scatter fresh or dried leaves around food to deter mice. (Spearmint) Rub on new beehive to attract bees. Use leaf oil to over power tobacco smells.
Cosmetic	Leaf - (Spearmint) Decoct strongly to heal chapped hands. Add to bath water for an invigorating bath.
Aromatic	Leaf - Use in potpourri and herb bags.
Medicinal	Leaf - (Spearmint) Inhale drops of essential oil, or sprinkle on hankerchief for relief from heavy colds. (Peppermints) Infuse as a tea to help digestion, colds and influenza. Sip cold tea for hiccups and flatulence. (Spearmint and peppermint) Macerate leaves in oil; them massage affected areas for migraines, facial neuralgia and rheumatic and muscular aches, especially in winter.