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Chocolate mintis a close relative topeppermint(Mentha piperita).
This hybrid is formed by crossingM.
citrata(orange mint) withM.
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piperitato make the ‘Chocolate’ cultivar, a sterile hybrid with the aroma of chocolate.
The plant grows about two feet tall and forms an attractive ground cover.
The rounded, lance-shaped leaves are a darker green than other forms of mint.
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Lavender-colored flowers bloom in summer.
This vigorous, fast-growing plant spreads quickly via rhizomes.
Chocolate Mint Care
Chocolate mint is planted from nursery starts or stem cuttings.
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Chocolate mint grows best in rich, moist soil that is slightly acidic or neutral.
Plant about two feet apart in spring after all danger of frost has passed.
Add some organic matter before planting.
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Mint is one of the few culinary herbs that prefers part shade.
Most mints are aggressive growers and will cover as much space as possible.
Alternatively, you could plant the whole container in the ground to control its rhizomatous roots from spreading.
Light
Chocolate mint plants preferpartial shade.
you could grow them in full sun if you water them frequently.
Soil
Just about any rich, moist soil will successfully grow chocolate mint.
Top-dress the soil yearly withorganic matterto keep it well-draining.
If growing in a container, never let the pot dry out completely and ensure it drains well.
You will need to provide substantial humidity if grown indoors, since indoor conditions are usually dry.
Extreme humidity may cause fungal diseases to develop.
Harvesting Chocolate Mint
Harvesting chocolate mint is easy.
Some say that mint is tastiest just before flowers appear.
When harvesting, pinch or pluck directly above a node where two new stems are growing.
This will encourage bushy growth and a full plant.
Dont take more than one-third of the leaves at any one pruning session.
Prune or harvest at least three or four times during the growing season.
When your plants bloom, shear them back, and new tender leaves will fill in.
You cannot grow this plant from seed, since chocolate mint is a sterile hybrid.
The plant will respond to pruning or stem harvesting by becoming bushier and keeping new foliage coming in.
With its dark green leaves and stems, chocolate mint is also nice in a hanging basket.
In its hardiness zones, chocolate mint does not require any assistance to make it through winter.
Use an organic fungicide and allow the leaves to dry out between waterings.
ensure the plants are not crowded and get plenty of air circulation.
Citrus oil is a good remedy for these insects.
Chocolate mint is alsodeer-resistant.
The little flowers look like tiny knots.Bees and pollinatorsare attracted to its blooms.
The flowers are not known for their scent; the leaves are the sweet-smelling star of this plant.
To prevent a plant from becoming root-bound, repot in a new container 2 to 3 inches wider.
A new pot should increase the growth rate and may encourage flowers.
Common Problems With Chocolate Mint
All mints are prolific growers.
Roots crowded in a pot will compete for water and nutrients.
To remedy this condition, repot in a larger pot, prune your plant, and give more water.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer.
Yellowing, Droopy Leaves
Mint does not like constantly wet feet.
Waterlogged soil or pots without drainage can cause mint to turn yellow and droop.
If caught early, you’re free to save the plant.
Before planting, you’re able to also dip the remaining healthy roots in a fungicide solution.
Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes to prevent root rot from recurring.
Change your fertilizer, weaken it, or stop giving it.
Also, leggy growth can be because of a root-bound plant looking to spread someplace more hospitable.
If your plant is placed in too shady of a spot, give it more light.
Frequent pruning can also make your plant appear bushier and stimulate new leaf growth.
Under good growing conditions, this plant can live five to 10 years.
Propagate with stem cutting to keep this plant growing longer in your home or garden.
Chocolate mint needs a lot of light.
Position a chocolate mint plant in a sunny, south-facing window when growing it indoors.
Chocolate mint makes an excellent addition or garnish to most desserts, such as chocolate mousse or ice cream.
It’s also great in cocktails, such as mojitos, mint juleps, and margaritas.
