503. Importance

Peppermint, Spearmint and Japanese Mint are aromatic herbs, grown to a fig. 86. martynia limited extent in American gardens. Peppermint is used in confectionery and medicine and occasionally for seasoning. Spearmint is popular as a flavoring herb.

504. Culture

Plants are readily propagated from seed, cuttings or division of roots. In home gardens, the seeds are often sown in beds and the plants allowed to spread at will. Results are more satisfactory by sowing shallowly in drills 12 to 18 inches apart, and thinning to 3 or 4 inches apart in the row. Any moist, fertile garden loam will grow good plants.