How to Grow Peppermint in Illinois: A Cool-Climate Herb

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a vigorous, hardy herb that thrives in cooler climates, making Illinois an ideal location for growing this refreshing plant. Whether you’re growing it for culinary purposes or for its medicinal properties, peppermint can flourish in your Illinois garden with the right care.

1. Choosing the Right Peppermint Variety

In Illinois, the cooler growing season allows for the cultivation of most peppermint varieties.

  • Black Peppermint: Known for its strong menthol flavor and purple-tinged stems, this variety performs well in Illinois’ cooler spring and fall temperatures.
  • White Peppermint: A more delicate and heat-sensitive variety, White Peppermint is ideal for gardeners looking for a milder flavor.

2. Timing Your Planting

Illinois has a more temperate climate compared to Arizona, making peppermint’s natural growing season more favorable.

  • Spring planting: Peppermint thrives when planted in early spring (April-May) after the last frost. Illinois’ long growing season provides plenty of time for the plant to establish itself.
  • Fall planting: For a second round of planting, you can start peppermint in early fall (September). Peppermint prefers cooler weather, and fall planting will allow for a harvest before the first frost.

3. Choosing the Right Location

Peppermint loves moisture, and Illinois’ wetter climate makes finding the right location easier than in drier regions.

  • Sunlight: Peppermint grows best in full to partial sunlight. Choose a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade to prevent the plant from overheating during warmer summer months.
  • Soil: Peppermint prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Illinois’ soil is often fertile, but adding compost or organic matter will improve drainage and nutrient levels.

4. Planting Peppermint

  • Sowing depth: Plant peppermint seeds or transplants 1/4 inch deep and space plants about 12-18 inches apart. Since peppermint spreads easily through its roots, you might want to plant it in a contained area to prevent it from taking over your garden.
  • Container gardening: Growing peppermint in containers is an excellent option for Illinois gardeners looking to control its spread. Make sure the container has drainage holes and water consistently.
  • Watering: Peppermint thrives in moist soil, so keep the ground evenly moist without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to ensure proper hydration throughout the day.

5. Caring for Your Peppermint

  • Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of your peppermint plants to retain moisture, especially during Illinois’ hot summer months. Mulching also helps control weeds.
  • Fertilizing: Peppermint is a light feeder, so adding compost or a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season is sufficient to keep it healthy and productive.
  • Pest Control: Peppermint’s strong aroma generally repels pests, but you may occasionally see aphids or spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

6. Harvesting Peppermint

  • Harvest leaves once the plant reaches about 6-8 inches tall. You can harvest regularly throughout the growing season, as peppermint regenerates quickly after cutting.
  • Pruning: Regularly prune the plant to prevent it from becoming too leggy. Pruning will encourage bushier growth and keep the plant compact.

7. Winter Care

Illinois’ cold winters require some protection for peppermint if you want it to survive year-round.

  • Mulching for winter: In late fall, add a thick layer of mulch around the plant’s base to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
  • Bringing indoors: Alternatively, peppermint can be dug up and brought indoors for the winter. Keep it in a pot near a sunny window for year-round use.

Conclusion

Peppermint is a low-maintenance herb that can thrive in Illinois with minimal effort. With its preference for cooler weather, ample moisture, and rich soil, Illinois gardeners can enjoy a bountiful peppermint harvest throughout the growing season. Whether grown in the ground or containers, peppermint will add a refreshing touch to your garden and kitchen year after year.