Was it mint to be? (Mint)

Member Name: loulou6

Product:	Mint
Date:	03/05/01 (962 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: can be used in most foods

Disadvantages: grows and grows and grows etc....

The cool refreshing taste of mint has been added to everything from toothpaste and anti-acids to sweets and teas. Of the hundreds of different varieties of mint, the most commonly used in cooking are varieties of spearmint. Other types of mint include apple, chocolate, lime, orange pineapple and lemon, to name a few.

Spearmint and peppermint are hardy to almost anywhere, and have dark green leaves and white to lavender flowers. These mints need lots of moist, well-drained soil to grow well. Mint can become an aggressive plant, so to control it, try to confine them to a limited space. One way to do this is to remove the bottom of a large plastic container and sink it in the ground, then plant your mint in the container. Remember to cut back all drooping stems or they'll root.

Mint usually grows best in full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hot climates(nothing we have to worry about then!). You only need to feed them lightly in the spring and then cut them back often during the growing season. Mint is prone to rust and white flies. If rust does appear you'll have to destroy the plant. White flies can be treated with soap spray.

Mint blends well with other herbs and flavours including hot and cold beverages, salads, soups, meats, vegetables, and rice to name a few. Fresh mint is best used for cooking, but when it’s dried, sealed and kept away from sunlight it holds its aromatic oils.

You can dry mint in the microwave by laying sprigs of fresh mint between two kitchen towels and cook them on high for three to four minutes. The mint should come out crispy-dry. You can also dry bunches of mint by hanging them upside down in a warm dry dark room, or place fresh them in plastic bags and store in the freezer. Dried Mint should have a good green colour and a strong Mint flavour.

Did you know the Latin name 'mentha' comes from 'Menthe?' Menthe was an enchanting spirit who w
as changed into the Mint plant by Proserpine, the jealous wife of Pluto. It does repel rats, mice and cats, relieves wasp stings and was even used by the Romans to whiten teeth.

So, is it mint to be? – yes, as long as you control it.

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