Mint is an annual herbaceous plant?
Among aromatic plants, mint is loved for its fresh aroma and vigorous vitality. However, many新手 gardeners often wonder: How long can mint survive? How to achieve continuous care for many years? This article will start from the botanical characteristics and deeply analyze the life cycle and scientific maintenance system of mint.
Decoding the Life Cycle of Mint
Perennial Herbaceous Characteristics
Mint belongs to the Labiatae family of perennial herbs, and its underground rhizome system has the ability to continuously regenerate. Every spring, when the temperature rises to above 5℃, the overwintering rhizomes will sprout new buds, and achieve natural reproduction through the lateral expansion of the rhizomes. This characteristic allows mint to overwinter outdoors in major producing areas such as Jiangsu and Anhui, theoretically having the potential for unlimited continuous growth.
Environmental Tolerance Threshold
Wild mint can be found in areas up to 3500 meters above sea level, and cultivated varieties can survive in the temperature range of -15℃ to 40℃. Its roots maintain activity in soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.8, but extreme drought or waterlogging for more than 72 hours can lead to root rot.
Four Key Elements to Extend Maintenance Duration
Scientific Substrate Ratio
The ideal growing substrate should meet the following criteria: humus content >30%, coarse sand proportion 20%, and perlite 15%. The substrate needs to be updated every spring, and adding decomposed sheep manure (5g per liter of soil) can significantly increase the mint essential oil content. It is recommended to use a deep pot of over 25cm when growing in a pot to ensure root growth space.
Photoperiod Management
Experiment data shows that an average daily light exposure of >8 hours can increase mint oil production by 42%. It is recommended to use an east-facing balcony or set up supplementary lights (spectra 400-700nm) to avoid direct sunlight at noon in summer. Insufficient light will reduce leaf thickness by 0.3-0.5mm.
Precise Water and Fertilizer Control
During the growing period (March-September), maintain soil moisture at 60%-70%, and use the immersion method to water the plant. In autumn and winter, reduce water to 30% moisture. A slow-release organic fertilizer (N-P-K=7-3-6) is recommended as a base fertilizer, and a 0.1% phosphorus acid hydrogen potassium solution is sprayed on the leaves every 20 days during the growing season.
Root Update Technology
Every 2 years, it is necessary to perform the division operation: cut the rhizome into sections containing 3-5 buds, disinfect, and then replant. Regularly pruning branches more than 15cm above the ground can stimulate the germination of new buds, making the plant younger.
Permanent Maintenance Practice Plan
By establishing a maintenance system that includes division backup, environmental monitoring, and regular rejuvenation, the permanent cultivation of mint can be achieved. Records show that plants managed with scientific methods have continued to grow for up to 17 years, still maintaining vigorous leaf production. It is recommended to use an automatic irrigation system and EC value tester to adjust growth parameters in real-time.
Mastering the perennial characteristics and maintenance points of mint can not only allow you to enjoy the fresh aroma all year round but also experience the wonder of the continuation of plant life. Regularly observe the plant's condition and adjust the maintenance strategy in a timely manner to make this fragrant herb an eternal green in your home.