One of the most favored of the mint plants is spearmint (Mentha spicata). This highly aromatic plant is valued for its culinary, medicinal and cosmetic use. Learning how to grow spearmint isn’t much different than growing other mint plants. Spearmint grows best in partial shade with well-draining, rich, moist soil and a pH of 6.5 to 7. Mint is easiest to grow from plants, but you can sow seed once the ground has warmed in the spring. Keep seeds moist until they germinate and thin plants to 1 foot (30 cm.) apart. The leaves are used fresh or dried to flavor many foods, particularly sweets, beverages, salads and sauces.
