How to raise American mint
As a vanilla plant with both ornamental and practical value, American mint is becoming a new favorite in urban gardening. This perennial herb in the Labiatae family not only has beautiful colors, but its unique citrus fragrance makes it a natural condiment on the table. This article will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the complete strategy for home planting American mint, from environmental regulation to pest control. 1. Environmental management points 1.1 Light temperature control American mint has typical photoperiod characteristics and needs to ensure more than 6 hours of scattered light every day. Full sunshine maintenance can be carried out in spring and autumn, and a sunshade net is needed to filter 30% of the strong light in summer. The suitable temperature for growth is between 15-28℃. When it is below-5℃ in winter, it is recommended to move it into indoor window sills. 1.2 The water supply strategy adopts the "see dry, see wet" watering method, and the topsoil is poured thoroughly immediately after 1cm is dry. In summer, combined with morning and evening leaf spraying, the air humidity remains at 60%-70%. Using the dipping pot method can avoid watering and scouring the soil, which is especially suitable for young seedling management. 2. Water and fertilizer management plan 2.1 How to raise American mint during the nutrient supply cycle
Composed cake fertilizer water (N-P-K=3-1-2) is applied every 15 days during the growth period, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution is used during the bud appearing period. Topdressing bone meal before winter dormancy enhances cold resistance, and pay attention to applying thin fertilizer frequently to avoid burning roots. 3. Reproductive and pruning skills 3.1 Double method of sowing and cuttage in spring, soak seeds in warm water for 8 hours and then order, maintaining 20℃ to accelerate germination. Select semi-lignified branches for cuttage, retain 3 sections and insert perlite, and take root in 2 weeks. Regularly pick the heart to promote lateral branches, and cut off residual flowers in time after flowering. 4. Pest and insect pest control 4.1 Biological control plan For mealybugs, yellow sticky insect boards can be hung and ladybugs can be released for biological control. Garlic extract is sprayed in the early stages of leaf spot disease, and mancozeb and difenoconazole are alternately used in severe cases. 5. For family maintenance practice, select pottery pots with a diameter of more than 20cm, and the substrate is prepared according to peat: perlite: vermiculite =2:1:1. Pay attention to rotating the basin regularly when placed on the kitchen window sill, and use rosemary planting to form a natural insect barrier.
By systematically mastering the growth characteristics of American mint and combining scientific maintenance measures, even novices can cultivate healthy plants with strong aroma. Regularly harvesting the top young leaves to make mint tea can not only promote plant renewal, but also enjoy the dual joys of gardening life.