Grow with CaliKim Seed Collections (spring garden, container garden, tomato, herbs, lettuce, heat tolerant greens, flowers, and more!): calikimgardenandhome.com/seeds/ Pre-order my new book: The First-Time Gardener: Raised Bed Gardening: All the know-how you need to build and grow a raised bed garden (release date, March 8, 2022): amzn.to/3xId4hR Save when you purchase my seed/book bundles: Container Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimContainerGardenSeedCollectionBookBundle Spring Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimSpringGardenSeedCollectionBookBundle Lettuce: bit.ly/CaliKimLettuceSeedBookBundle Late Summer Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimLateSummerSeedCollectionBookBundle Thanks for gardening with us!
Hi, how do you store them for long time? If you don’t mind explaining it in detail. Just throw the mint cut in the water as you showed in your video. Does it stay longer in the fridge? Thanks in advance.
I throw mint and fresh cucumber in the blender and add it to coconut oil & sugar for a wonderfully refreshing and healing hand scrub! We gardeners have to treat our hands to some TLC🥰
Besides using mint fresh, on these hot days I dry and preserve the extra on screens in the shade. You can also hang it upside down in bunches and remove leaves from stems after drying. Once dried I mix with other things dried like chamomile, rose hips, lemongrass, and roselle hybiscus and orange peel for a super tasty tea thats served hot or cold all year. I'm lucky to be able to grow all but the chamomile which I purchase bulk in the spice section of our local mkt that carries a variety of ethnic specialty spices and herbs. Mix your own. Save money.🍃
Every night we chop off a handful of our fresh organic chocolate and peppermint leaves and stems into the teapot and make hot mint tea. It is healthy refreshing relaxing as when we us our fresh chamomile leaves. ❤
Hi Kim. You can also chop some tomatoes, onions and add mint in food processor, a few pulses and add salt and lemon juice if you like and eat like salsa
Didn't get all the way through the comments to see if I am repeating someone else's. I have been served cubed watermelon with mint. Just those two ingredients. One of the most refreshing things that I have ever had.
One of my favorite new ideas for summer mint: grilled eggplant panzanella with mint...it is just so good and can be eaten as a side or as a main dish! When we bought our house, it was the first time in my adult life that I had a backyard after living in city apartments for several years. The one thing growing in the veggie bed (which was not in the best location) was mint. I had not watered it or anything, and this was before I was interested in gardening. The rain came and it just popped up everywhere, and when I smelled it was mint, that's what first got me thinking that I could actually grow things that I could eat in my backyard! That is what prompted me to by my very first tomato, zucchini, and pepper plants. I have rescued that mint and contained in a pot as a remnant/memory of the house as well as my first exposure to gardening!
What a great story, Marie! I love it! You never know where you'll find inspiration. I'll have to look up a recipe for eggplant panzanella - sounds amazing, as I'll have eggplant soon. Enjoy your mint!
I new to growing mint and love it. I’ve been infusing it with distilled water overnight and a blast of pure mint water as distilled water pulls things out. The poor leaves lays lifeless next day. And I get to enjoy very strong my minty water.
I make mint chutney. Ingredients Mint Fresh cilantro leaves A small clove garlic Green chilli to taste Salt Squeeze of Lemon juice Blitz all ingredients together. To add some texture you can add coriander seeds to the mix You can add yogurt and make a dip or use it without. So delicious on buttered bread, with chips or onion bajis, chicken meat anything!! So delicious
My daughter sent me a mint plant from California and this is my first experience with growing mint. Thank you for all the information it will help as I’m not a gardener.
Here in Perú we have a traditional salad/garnish that we eat with deep fried pork. It's just purple/red onions sliced very thin with mint. Sometimes you add lemon and salt. It really feels so clean and refreshing after the pork, like it cuts the fat. We also make "wild" lemonade, which is just limes blended peels and all with some sugar and mint leaves. It makes the lemonade just so extra refreshing. I'm wanting to look into Greek and Mediterranean cuisine because I've heard they use lots of mint too.
I have 5 varieties of mint in my container garden. I have mint tea almost every morning since it grows so quick. Mt favorite is the chocolate mint. After washing the leaves I stick them in water, put them in the fridge over night to steep and have ice mint tea or hot tea in the morning. If you want more flavor from each leave just break them up and strain them when pouring. I’ve even added more water to the leaves and gotten a second cup of tea (it’s not a strong but still has a nice refreshing flavor)
I have peppermint that I bought from the store last year. My son and I harvested some last fall, dried the leaves in the oven to make loose leave hot tea. Very good on cold days and nights.
Since last year, this has been year of gardening 1st for me and mint is on that list! I clipped mint and lemon balm and put in my ice water while gardening! You're right, so refreshing! I also froze some in ice cubes for next time!Thanks for sharing!🤗
I grew lemongrass once only to find out it was the kind used to repel bugs or make candles. There are two kinds, one can be used as food, the other cannot! Make sure you get the right kind.
I started out with one small peppermint plant from the store. It has been raining here everyday for months. I just broke it up into 4 plants, and removed a few flowers. I make peppermint oil to.
This is my first year growing herbs on my apartment patio. I get plenty of sun and some shade. I chose peppermint, basil and oregano. I’m so happy I found your videos and website. This video was clear precise and easy to follow. Thank you.
Hi Kim! I'm growing 3 types of mint and yes..it is so invasive! My pot basically exploded with that sweet scent and I can smell it as I pass by. I use it in my vanilla ice cream, teas, and water to take on the go! Love mint!
Love mint!! I have about 7 types growing. I love to make an infusion in a mason jar. I will use combinations of mint, raspberry leaves, yarrow flowers/leaves, dandelion leaves/flowers. wild chamomile, red clover, plantain leaves, fireweed, chickweed, stinging nettle leaves, wild rose petals or rosehips etc lol. I usually let it steep covered for a few hours then put in fridge over night to chill. Strain it either before or after fridge depending on how lazy/rushed I am. All of these plants grow wild in my yard or very close by. Very lucky.
I harvest my mint and dry it in my attic on cookie racks for 5 days. Then I crush the leaves and store them in pint jars to use as a loose leaf tea. I harvest enough to last through most of the winter.
Great video. Make mint & corriander chutney. Dry it & use it while boiling black tea. Crumble dried leaves over just cooked butter chicken, lamb or goat curry or even mix it up w shredded & drained cucumber, salt and pepper in yogurt to accompany any lunch or dinners.
I have many varieties of mint I use it as erosion control on hilly areas. And Corsican mint is great under the swing…. The aroma and texture on Bare feet is incredible! And MOJITOS
Mint is a natural mosquito repellant. When you chop mint sprinkle a little sugar on it to draw out the full flavour. Add it to yoghurt and cucumber, chill and use with grilled / roast lamb.
It’s wild how mint grows, I mean sending out shoots under the soil even… I always heard “it’s invasive, it’s invasive”, but it’s another thing to see it for yourself! I love my mojito mint though, the smell, the taste, it’s the best!! It’s good in a blender with ice- watermelon, cucumber and some agave sweetener. It’s also amazing in a watermelon salad- watermelon, feta cheese, mint and balsamic vinaigrette, one of my favs!
My mint grows wild in an area of my "yard". I live off grid, country/forest so, there's enough room for everyone... 😉 I harvest the mint and other herbs/leaves/berries etc. throughout the summer fall. During the summer months, I'll make chilled drinks to sip on while working the homestead and gardens. I also dehydrate much of my various herbs, leaves and berries to use throughout the cold winter months in hot tea's as well as using a few of them in my homemade natural bath and body products. My favorite tea is a mix between mint, lemon balm and raspberry.
Hi Ashely - glad you like it - my hair was getting damaged from blowing straight, so going with a more natural look. It's called the "curly girl method" and I'm having fun with it! Thank you!
Mint is good to keep the little mice away from my back porch. Also good in meatballs and to make a salve. Haven't done the last one yet but is probably refreshing if you mix it with another herb for the skin. Peppermint is the best in ice tea with fruit juice added.
@@colleengiese I've had voles (I think that's what I saw) in the mint. 🤷🏻♀️ I had just watered and it was shaking, so just let it be. So, I planted one or two small plants next to the house b4 I knew they would take over. There's lots of mint, no matter how much I dig up, so put some in the middle of the yard since all the grass died.😁 it's better than the sand. I've heard that it deters insects. Some plants have some kind of webs on them. Also have little orange moths and some tiny black bugs. Any idea what the webs belong to or what the moths and bugs are? Next to them, I don't mind the occasional little critter.
Great video, I like the garden tour. I love mint tea. I drink it hot made fresh every night after dinner. I use fresh mint from May- September and then make it with dried mint the rest of the year because it will be under the snow all winter. If I have any leftover tea I drink it over ice. I dry my mint by hanging it up outside on my covered porch in the shade.
Spearmint Recipe - soup : I learned from my mom and grandmother to make a delicious soup made with spearmint. (To be eaten warmed up or hot never cold.) Boil water in a soup pot, add salt to desired/preferred taste, add spearmint not peppermint or others (lots of sprigs like for 4 cups water 4 sprigs), and add butter (unsalted if already salted water) a tablespoon for 4 cups water. Let all come to a good boil and remove from heat. Now, add EGGS (without shells) into the pot and DO NOT STIR WATER ! JUST COVER the pot and let eggs poach. In about a minute or two you can put the pot back on the element that should still have some heat from having boiled the broth, and DO NOT TURN ON HEAT. The eggs will cook with that residual heat. In 15 minutes or until egg is cooked/poached to liking, taste to be sure saltiness is to liking (adjust if need be) and serve in a bowl and cut the poached egg which will make the broth become slightly creamy from the egg yolk. Optional to eat the spearmint leaves that have cooked, softened and reduced it’s pungent minty taste. Can add some water-crackers or saltine crackers or chia/flax seed crackers..etc.. into broth or just eat it as a protein soup without crackers. Can also add raw watercress or raw spinach to the hot broth in the soup bowl and YUM !!! YUM! YUM! EVEN BETTER THE NEXT FEW DAYS !!!!
LOVED the smacking part haha. I saw you do it then immediately gave my mint cutting a whack and wow. It really does make the smell more intense. Very cool thank you for that!!!
Many years ago I read that mint kept away the Vine borers from squash plants. I planted it among the squash plants. It didn't keep the vine borer away, but it took me awhile to get rid of the tunneling roots. Oregano is invasive also. Thanks for sharing this valuable information with us Kim.🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Oh wow - sorry to hear that, Shirley. It is crazy invasive! In my experience, oregano is not near as invasive as mint. Perhaps different varieties are different. Glad you enjoyed the video - thanks so much for the visit!
You could also do cucumbers and lemonade water and add some mint it taste so good. Also if you make chicken soup you could add a bit and gives the soup a good flavor.
I love spearmint! I crumble up a tall mint sprig (and briefly rinse my hands of the oil) right into the pitcher when I add the hot water and tea bags. It's SOOOOO good!
We make mint tea. And sometimes we added to regular tea just to give it a little boost of flavor. At the beginning of Summer my dad dropped me and my sister off at maw-maws house to do some yard work and to clean out her garden. And we found that her mint was going crazy all over the place. She and I picked them in and we made two cases of half pint jelly jars of mint jelly. She let us keep a couple hars to bring back home. And she sold the rest of them at the local farmers market. I like to have them in a fruit salad also. I made the mistake of putting two mint plants at the very end of one of my raised garden beds. And well basically it's trying to take over the entire bed. Oh and I almost forgot. Maw-maw also makes mint extract.
I absolutely love mint! I remember my neighbor in ny when I was a kid had it growing from her side of the fence into ours and I would spend a lot of time there, just enjoying that mint!!
I chop up the tender tops and flowers of my spearmint into salads. I make jars of fruit that I keep in the fridge for snacking. Right now I have a jar of fresh papaya, and canned peaches, covered in some organic orange juice with a sprig of spearmint. The fruit is delicious and a splash of the juice in ice water is wonderfully refreshing. I also make extract of mints by filling a jar with fresh leaves and stems and then covering with vodka. Mint sugar is easy to make by burying a couple of leaves in the sugar bowl. thanks Song
I grow orange mint and hang to dry, like an herb (don't use dehydrator). Once dried, I use a small coffee grinder and preserve it in cute little jars. Great for marinading fish or chicken, or anything else you'd like to add that flavor to.
Vegan, guilt-free ChocoMint Coffee Coolata with a touch of Ginger Mint is the ultimate smoothie made with 1 1/2 - 2 cups of cold black coffee, 2-3 frozen bananas (more if you want ice cream), 1 medjool date in the Vitamix. Sooo good! It tastes just like chocolate! If serving kids or you don't want the caffeine you can substitute mint water or your favorite plant-based milk. This time of year I throw some raspberries on top of the ice cream to make a delicious desert. I've been thinking I should try to bake something with it too....
Thanks for the video. It came at a good time because I need to harvest my mint as well. And your harvest videos are the best I’ve seen. Love your red pots. Gives me more ideas.
Its crazy how it comes back! Always a nice sign of spring to see the new growth, unless it's in a space where you don't want it - enjoy your mint, Amber!
I use the flowers, too. I chop them into tiny pieces for any kind of baking. Mint flower scones are really good! The flavor from the flowers is just right, it isn't so strong as the leaves would make it.
You can buy a muddler for cocktails to muddle the mint in the drink. I liked seeing the flowered mint I've never seen it. Mine finally just popped back up. I realize the container I have is too small now too. 😅
This is my first year for growing mints so I have a lot to learn about them. I have peppermint, spearmint, sweet mint and lemon balm, which is also a mint. They're all in individual containers in my yard. I'll make a tea with the lemon balm and one of the others - different each time and all refreshing. I'm also air drying them for winter use.
Bruising the mint leaves certainly does release more oils. I keep a 4 inch section of half inch dowel in my stuff drawer. I have a wood shop so I have lots of dowel pieces. I use the short dowel as a miniature rolling pin. Roll the leaves between the dowel and your cutting board a few times and you have a wonderful release of fragrance.
I wash the mint, dry it out and hang it ALL OVER my kitchen windows till dry--the I crush it and put it in a mason jar for storage--good for about 1 year! If you are using for tea put some whole leaves in another mason jar. Love that mint!! I have some peppermint in a raised bed and some in fabric grow bags. Spearmint the same.
Hello, 💚🌱✨🥰 I saw you on Google and your video was truly amazing and inspiring that I had to follow you on youtube. Thank you so much for all of these amazing tips and I am so happy to follow you and learn from you because I am starting my herb garden as of today and I really did not know what to do so I prayed about it and seriously your video popped up on Google as I was searching what can I do to bring forth my spearmint plant and truly your breath of fresh air!! Oh and your sunflowers looks wonderful! I will have to look for your video on how to grow them probably next. You have gained a new follower and many more subscribers after I let all my family and friends know that you are my newly inspired herb and garden angel. Bless you and cheers to you as well. 💚🌱🌻✨💫
Wow. Miss Darlene: WELCOME. 🙏 What a thrill to have you following! May I say I am honored !!! Make sure notifications is on - we have fun around here and you don’t want to miss out on posts: Videos, Shorts, Drone shots, GoPro…all to make your experience immersive. You made my day. Thank you. Don’t be a stranger and bring the family. We love it. CaliKim and CameraGuy (my husband). CK
Our mint dies back in our hot southern summers. We grow it in mostly shade. I put it in a bed, it has exploded but it’s so pretty and smells awesome. I grew up on mint tea in Europe so that’s a fav too
I love making mint limeade, adding a touch of mint to my protein shakes, or making watermelon lemonade with mint. Freeze watermelon chunks, put them in the blender, fill in the cracks with lemonade and some mint leaves, and blend into a delicious slushie. 🤤 Strawberry Basil lemonade is also to die for. This year I want to make a bunch of mint extract during the summer, to give as Christmas gifts.
Mint like orégano, basil and thime to preserve you tie little bunches and hang down inside paper bags, I never washed it before but I cleaned them with paper towell, well I did washed the basil, maybe some mint, but normally they seem to me clean, when Winter is here I check my bunches and bags and I put them in 1 gallon ziploc bags, I do not label myself but you can do it, if not too familiar with them, they are better than dried leaves from the store and more aromatic, you may use them for cooking or infusion during the whole Winter that they are dead dormant, unless you put inside the pot, they bring a fragrance to the house.
thanks for the video. i live in nj where the mint dries out in winter, so in summer i dry my mint leaves and make powder out of it , then i put lemon , salt , black pepper and mint power in my sparkling water. its the most delicious and refreshing.
Sounds fabulous! Sounds like you have done some experimenting and have gotten the process down? You are welcome for the video - so glad you enjoyed it! Kim
Lots & lots of ways to use fresh mint but I use it daily to help stomach digest/upset. I just soak fresh leaves in hot water (like tea), It did take me a brief second to get used to the taste but now I like it and it really does make a difference. I also like to make pesto with it, Yum! I grow indoors in the winter so I always have it fresh & it smells great in the room😉
Love mint! Many many uses! A few sprigs in rice pilaf gives it that extra special aroma & flavor, add it while you sauté some veggies: squash, cauliflower, carrots etc. Add a bit to Gazpacho! And my most favorite way it to make Tabouleh salad!!! Fresh mint, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and raw soaked bulgur wheat… with a dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt & pepper!!! You won’t find a more filling refreshing salad for the summer! ( I add some very finely chopped fresh chili pepper for some added heat!)
I came here to gain knowledge. I did and also smiles :D your garden is so loved, and unique, just like you!! Thank you for also teaching us the importance of containing plants like mint, so they dont take over.
I have fresh mint growing around our fire pit. I noticed it a couple of years ago. Now from watching your video I know how to harvest it. What I'd like to know is how to dry it if it doesn't harm it. I have a friend with major stomach issues and I know they say mint is good to help settle the stomach. I'd like to learn how to do that. Fortunately for me it has not gone crazy around the firepit. I think it's because the previous owners have gravel mixed with the soil and it smells so beautiful. Where is the best place to find out the many uses of mint in cooking and for your health. I'd appreciate your directions on how to care for it and it's many uses. Thank you for any help you can offer
To dry mint, start by harvesting in the morning when the oils are most concentrated. Gently rinse and pat the leaves dry. Hang small bunches upside down in a warm, dry spot with good air circulation, out of direct sunlight to preserve flavor and color. Once completely dry, store the whole leaves in an airtight container away from light, and crumble them just before use. Mint is a wonderful herb for both cooking and health. It’s well-known for aiding digestion and can be brewed into tea to help soothe the stomach. It also shines in salads, with meats like lamb, in sauces, and desserts. For more inspiration on mint’s culinary and health benefits, check out resources like the Herbal Academy or Mountain Rose Herbs, which often share herb-focused recipes and health insights. To keep your mint healthy, trim it back periodically to delay flowering, which preserves its rich flavor. The gravel around your fire pit is likely helping contain its spread-a perfect setup for keeping it manageable! If my replies and videos have been helpful - please subscribe! Thank you - CaliKim
This is my first year I bought some mint and chocolate mint . I didn’t know what to do with it. So thank you! I have never planted any herbs before. I bought lavender and basil, don’t know what to do with that either. lol. Thank you
I have just one very happy peppermint plant in a pot. I love the idea of mint water. My girls are coming home for a wedding this weekend…thanks for the idea 💕🌱 What an awesome way to serve a crowd! Another idea: Mojitos ❤️😂😋🤩🍹Love watching you Kim. Get ready for the heat wave…we’re going to be HOT 🥵 this weekend in Gilroy!
Hi Stacy - happy to hear you've found a sweet spot for your mint. Mint water in a large beverage container is perfect for a crowd, I've done it for parties many times. You can add chunks of watermelon, sliced cucumbers or strawberries to kick it up a notch. And mojitos are heavenly on a hot summer evening. Stay cool in Gilroy and enjoy the wedding!
I have had mint tea since I was a lot girl💕 I always wanted to learn how to harvest it! Thank You for your video all my mind has the flowers now I didn’t know when to harvest it I will be harvesting it now I want to dry it out for tea.
Wow love your mint leaves. I just learned the hard way they do grow wild. I just cut down a "forest" of mint leaves. Time for some Mojitos. I like the water/ soda with mint leaves. Great video thanks!
Great idea with the water and mint. Will definitely try that whenever it's sunny in Scotland again. I love to use peppermint in my tea strainer. Refreshing and good breath
Grow with CaliKim Seed Collections (spring garden, container garden, tomato, herbs, lettuce, heat tolerant greens, flowers, and more!): calikimgardenandhome.com/seeds/
Pre-order my new book: The First-Time Gardener: Raised Bed Gardening: All the know-how you need to build and grow a raised bed garden (release date, March 8, 2022): amzn.to/3xId4hR
Save when you purchase my seed/book bundles:
Container Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimContainerGardenSeedCollectionBookBundle
Spring Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimSpringGardenSeedCollectionBookBundle
Lettuce: bit.ly/CaliKimLettuceSeedBookBundle
Late Summer Garden: bit.ly/CaliKimLateSummerSeedCollectionBookBundle
Thanks for gardening with us!
😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊 6:47 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊9.99 😊9
Hi, how do you store them for long time? If you don’t mind explaining it in detail. Just throw the mint cut in the water as you showed in your video. Does it stay longer in the fridge? Thanks in advance.
I throw mint and fresh cucumber in the blender and add it to coconut oil & sugar for a wonderfully refreshing and healing hand scrub! We gardeners have to treat our hands to some TLC🥰
Hi ShellyKae - oh, I love this, my hands are always so dry from the garden, thanks for the suggestion!
Great idea!! I take it that you keep that in the fridge!?
I am going to try this.
Nice idea, will try it
Thanks so much.Ive been growing mint,learning more each year.Love using mine in tea,hot or cold.Love getting more ideas.
Besides using mint fresh, on these hot days I dry and preserve the extra on screens in the shade. You can also hang it upside down in bunches and remove leaves from stems after drying. Once dried I mix with other things dried like chamomile, rose hips, lemongrass, and roselle hybiscus and orange peel for a super tasty tea thats served hot or cold all year. I'm lucky to be able to grow all but the chamomile which I purchase bulk in the spice section of our local mkt that carries a variety of ethnic specialty spices and herbs. Mix your own. Save money.🍃
Every night we chop off a handful of our fresh organic chocolate and peppermint leaves and stems into the teapot and make hot mint tea. It is healthy refreshing relaxing as when we us our fresh chamomile leaves. ❤
Hi Kim. You can also chop some tomatoes, onions and add mint in food processor, a few pulses and add salt and lemon juice if you like and eat like salsa
I blend mint and powdered cinnamon, then add to lemonade or cucumber water. My family loves the taste!!!
Didn't get all the way through the comments to see if I am repeating someone else's. I have been served cubed watermelon with mint. Just those two ingredients. One of the most refreshing things that I have ever had.
Do you make it and store it? What kind of container would you keep it in? I love this idea
I agree, it is a wonderful combination
I love mint, my grandma always grew it, she would just pick it and chew on it like a breath mint, lol. You look so pretty in this video by the way.
Oh thank you, Debra! Great idea to use it as a natural breath freshener, appreciate the suggestion!
One of my favorite new ideas for summer mint: grilled eggplant panzanella with mint...it is just so good and can be eaten as a side or as a main dish! When we bought our house, it was the first time in my adult life that I had a backyard after living in city apartments for several years. The one thing growing in the veggie bed (which was not in the best location) was mint. I had not watered it or anything, and this was before I was interested in gardening. The rain came and it just popped up everywhere, and when I smelled it was mint, that's what first got me thinking that I could actually grow things that I could eat in my backyard! That is what prompted me to by my very first tomato, zucchini, and pepper plants. I have rescued that mint and contained in a pot as a remnant/memory of the house as well as my first exposure to gardening!
What a great story, Marie! I love it! You never know where you'll find inspiration. I'll have to look up a recipe for eggplant panzanella - sounds amazing, as I'll have eggplant soon. Enjoy your mint!
I new to growing mint and love it. I’ve been infusing it with distilled water overnight and a blast of pure mint water as distilled water pulls things out. The poor leaves lays lifeless next day. And I get to enjoy very strong my minty water.
I make mint chutney.
Ingredients
Mint
Fresh cilantro leaves
A small clove garlic
Green chilli to taste
Salt
Squeeze of Lemon juice
Blitz all ingredients together. To add some texture you can add coriander seeds to the mix
You can add yogurt and make a dip or use it without. So delicious on buttered bread, with chips or onion bajis, chicken meat anything!! So delicious
Sounds great - thanks for sharing your recipe!
@@CaliKim29 your welcome. If you try it please let me know how it was x
I love Indian food. This sounds delicious. I'll make a small batch without the yogurt and freeze it. Should be ok to add yogurt when defrosted? Thx! 😊
My daughter sent me a mint plant from California and this is my first experience with growing mint. Thank you for all the information it will help as I’m not a gardener.
You are so welcome! Keep watching and keep it simple, Linda! Kim
Braised cucumbers with mint and lemon is one of my favorite/easy Julie Child recipes. A great way to use up that mint!
Sounds yummy, Melissa, will have to check that one out!
Here in Perú we have a traditional salad/garnish that we eat with deep fried pork. It's just purple/red onions sliced very thin with mint. Sometimes you add lemon and salt. It really feels so clean and refreshing after the pork, like it cuts the fat. We also make "wild" lemonade, which is just limes blended peels and all with some sugar and mint leaves. It makes the lemonade just so extra refreshing. I'm wanting to look into Greek and Mediterranean cuisine because I've heard they use lots of mint too.
I have 5 varieties of mint in my container garden. I have mint tea almost every morning since it grows so quick. Mt favorite is the chocolate mint. After washing the leaves I stick them in water, put them in the fridge over night to steep and have ice mint tea or hot tea in the morning. If you want more flavor from each leave just break them up and strain them when pouring. I’ve even added more water to the leaves and gotten a second cup of tea (it’s not a strong but still has a nice refreshing flavor)
Did you start from a cutting? Or a seed?
I have peppermint that I bought from the store last year. My son and I harvested some last fall, dried the leaves in the oven to make loose leave hot tea. Very good on cold days and nights.
@Lisa Wilson ……..do you dry the leaves to store for winter ?
You can, yes.
Love the smell of mint. Besides adding it to my water, I add it to my green salads. Just gives it a refreshing burst of flavor and so simple.
Adding to salad is one of my favorite uses! It add an amazing depth of flavor. Basil, mint and dill together are a dream team!
Add to your kebaab mixture..super nice...as a garnish in soups and dhalls...chutneys...biryani...samosas
Since last year, this has been year of gardening 1st for me and mint is on that list! I clipped mint and lemon balm and put in my ice water while gardening! You're right, so refreshing! I also froze some in ice cubes for next time!Thanks for sharing!🤗
A great herb to start with, always a sure thing. Love the idea of freezing it in ice cubes, but that looks so pretty in drinks! Thanks for the visit!
Mint and Lemon Grass my 2 favorite plants in my garden. Nothing more refreshing than a glass of Fresh Lemon Grass Tea!
Ooooh, have to try that! Sounds amazing, thanks for the suggestion, BigggRoss!
I make the same tea with my mint but I use lemon thyme..yummy!
I'd love to grow lemongrass, it's good for medicinal purposes as well
I grew lemongrass once only to find out it was the kind used to repel bugs or make candles. There are two kinds, one can be used as food, the other cannot! Make sure you get the right kind.
I started out with one small peppermint plant from the store. It has been raining here everyday for months. I just broke it up into 4 plants, and removed a few flowers. I make peppermint oil to.
I love peppermint! How do you make the oil?
This is my first year growing herbs on my apartment patio. I get plenty of sun and some shade. I chose peppermint, basil and oregano. I’m so happy I found your videos and website. This video was clear precise and easy to follow. Thank you.
Hi Kim! I'm growing 3 types of mint and yes..it is so invasive! My pot basically exploded with that sweet scent and I can smell it as I pass by. I use it in my vanilla ice cream, teas, and water to take on the go! Love mint!
Love mint!! I have about 7 types growing. I love to make an infusion in a mason jar. I will use combinations of mint, raspberry leaves, yarrow flowers/leaves, dandelion leaves/flowers. wild chamomile, red clover, plantain leaves, fireweed, chickweed, stinging nettle leaves, wild rose petals or rosehips etc lol. I usually let it steep covered for a few hours then put in fridge over night to chill. Strain it either before or after fridge depending on how lazy/rushed I am. All of these plants grow wild in my yard or very close by. Very lucky.
I harvest my mint and dry it in my attic on cookie racks for 5 days. Then I crush the leaves and store them in pint jars to use as a loose leaf tea. I harvest enough to last through most of the winter.
I hope you don't have open fiberglass insulation in your attic. The air is not clean around fiberglass.
How much do you usually use up in the winter?
This is a good idea. I just purchase a small dehydrator. I’m going to do this!
Great video. Make mint & corriander chutney. Dry it & use it while boiling black tea. Crumble dried leaves over just cooked butter chicken, lamb or goat curry or even mix it up w shredded & drained cucumber, salt and pepper in yogurt to accompany any lunch or dinners.
I have many varieties of mint I use it as erosion control on hilly areas. And Corsican mint is great under the swing…. The aroma and texture on Bare feet is incredible! And MOJITOS
Thanks for sharing, Wanda! Love all these suggestions, esp the feel of mint on bare feet, how fun!
Mint is a natural mosquito repellant. When you chop mint sprinkle a little sugar on it to draw out the full flavour. Add it to yoghurt and cucumber, chill and use with grilled / roast lamb.
We have so much mint and basil so we made a pesto sauce with lemon, oil, garlic, and sunflower seeds. Delicious
It’s wild how mint grows, I mean sending out shoots under the soil even… I always heard “it’s invasive, it’s invasive”, but it’s another thing to see it for yourself! I love my mojito mint though, the smell, the taste, it’s the best!! It’s good in a blender with ice- watermelon, cucumber and some agave sweetener. It’s also amazing in a watermelon salad- watermelon, feta cheese, mint and balsamic vinaigrette, one of my favs!
My mint grows wild in an area of my "yard". I live off grid, country/forest so, there's enough room for everyone... 😉 I harvest the mint and other herbs/leaves/berries etc. throughout the summer fall. During the summer months, I'll make chilled drinks to sip on while working the homestead and gardens. I also dehydrate much of my various herbs, leaves and berries to use throughout the cold winter months in hot tea's as well as using a few of them in my homemade natural bath and body products.
My favorite tea is a mix between mint, lemon balm and raspberry.
I love mint in Quinoa salads !
Thanks for sharing how to harvest and store mint 😊
Beautiful curly hair, omg! I love it.
Hi Ashely - glad you like it - my hair was getting damaged from blowing straight, so going with a more natural look. It's called the "curly girl method" and I'm having fun with it! Thank you!
I love mint.. have several .. just brushing my hands across it.. the smell💗
It's heavenly! Thanks for watching, Ruth Ann!
Try adding fresh cucumber with the mint in your water, so refreshing and delicious!
Wow! That’s a lot of mint. I can imagine the smell of it.. so nice.
It really is amazing - hope you can grow some too!
Love this! Just now learning about herbs and trying to grow them. You do a great job of explaining everything! Thank you!
Mint is good to keep the little mice away from my back porch. Also good in meatballs and to make a salve. Haven't done the last one yet but is probably refreshing if you mix it with another herb for the skin. Peppermint is the best in ice tea with fruit juice added.
Love these tips, thank you, Pam!
Yes, the mint growing along out patio/foundation also deters cute field mice who try to sneak in the door!! mmm👃, mint!
@@colleengiese I've had voles (I think that's what I saw) in the mint. 🤷🏻♀️ I had just watered and it was shaking, so just let it be. So, I planted one or two small plants next to the house b4 I knew they would take over. There's lots of mint, no matter how much I dig up, so put some in the middle of the yard since all the grass died.😁 it's better than the sand. I've heard that it deters insects. Some plants have some kind of webs on them. Also have little orange moths and some tiny black bugs. Any idea what the webs belong to or what the moths and bugs are? Next to them, I don't mind the occasional little critter.
I love your ideas, I never thought of putting it directly in ice water. I usually make a sun tea, mix it with other favorite herbs and refrigerate.
Mint is such a blessing. Thank you for making the video.
Great video, I like the garden tour.
I love mint tea. I drink it hot made fresh every night after dinner. I use fresh mint from May- September and then make it with dried mint the rest of the year because it will be under the snow all winter. If I have any leftover tea I drink it over ice. I dry my mint by hanging it up outside on my covered porch in the shade.
Spearmint Recipe - soup : I learned from my mom and grandmother to make a delicious soup made with spearmint. (To be eaten warmed up or hot never cold.) Boil water in a soup pot, add salt to desired/preferred taste, add spearmint not peppermint or others (lots of sprigs like for 4 cups water 4 sprigs), and add butter (unsalted if already salted water) a tablespoon for 4 cups water. Let all come to a good boil and remove from heat. Now, add EGGS (without shells) into the pot and DO NOT STIR WATER ! JUST COVER the pot and let eggs poach. In about a minute or two you can put the pot back on the element that should still have some heat from having boiled the broth, and DO NOT TURN ON HEAT. The eggs will cook with that residual heat. In 15 minutes or until egg is cooked/poached to liking, taste to be sure saltiness is to liking (adjust if need be) and serve in a bowl and cut the poached egg which will make the broth become slightly creamy from the egg yolk. Optional to eat the spearmint leaves that have cooked, softened and reduced it’s pungent minty taste. Can add some water-crackers or saltine crackers or chia/flax seed crackers..etc.. into broth or just eat it as a protein soup without crackers. Can also add raw watercress or raw spinach to the hot broth in the soup bowl and YUM !!! YUM! YUM! EVEN BETTER THE NEXT FEW DAYS !!!!
Love All different Mints!! I bought a salad spinner and always wash the Mint and spin it .It makes the dehydrating time much much faster !!!
LOVED the smacking part haha. I saw you do it then immediately gave my mint cutting a whack and wow. It really does make the smell more intense. Very cool thank you for that!!!
You’re voice is as refreshing as mint
Many years ago I read that mint kept away the Vine borers from squash plants. I planted it among the squash plants. It didn't keep the vine borer away, but it took me awhile to get rid of the tunneling roots.
Oregano is invasive also.
Thanks for sharing this valuable information with us Kim.🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Oh wow - sorry to hear that, Shirley. It is crazy invasive! In my experience, oregano is not near as invasive as mint. Perhaps different varieties are different. Glad you enjoyed the video - thanks so much for the visit!
You could also do cucumbers and lemonade water and add some mint it taste so good. Also if you make chicken soup you could add a bit and gives the soup a good flavor.
I love spearmint! I crumble up a tall mint sprig (and briefly rinse my hands of the oil) right into the pitcher when I add the hot water and tea bags. It's SOOOOO good!
Yes, spearmint! Probably my favorite. And mint is very good in iced tea too!
We make mint tea. And sometimes we added to regular tea just to give it a little boost of flavor.
At the beginning of Summer my dad dropped me and my sister off at maw-maws house to do some yard work and to clean out her garden. And we found that her mint was going crazy all over the place. She and I picked them in and we made two cases of half pint jelly jars of mint jelly. She let us keep a couple hars to bring back home. And she sold the rest of them at the local farmers market.
I like to have them in a fruit salad also.
I made the mistake of putting two mint plants at the very end of one of my raised garden beds. And well basically it's trying to take over the entire bed.
Oh and I almost forgot. Maw-maw also makes mint extract.
Hi Kaitlyn, ooo, love the sounds of mint jelly, and mint extract. Very resourceful of her to sell them at farmer's market. Fun times!
@@CaliKim29 Thank you for saying so. ❤
@Kaitlyn_B97 Recipes please for both the jelly and the mint extract. Thanks.
I grow different types of mint. I use the fresh chocolate mint in my coffee. The chocolate is subtle so it’s almost like a mocha mint coffee. So good!
OH my gosh...that sounds soooo goood!!!! CK
I absolutely love mint! I remember my neighbor in ny when I was a kid had it growing from her side of the fence into ours and I would spend a lot of time there, just enjoying that mint!!
I chop up the tender tops and flowers of my spearmint into salads. I make jars of fruit that I keep in the fridge for snacking. Right now I have a jar of fresh papaya, and canned peaches, covered in some organic orange juice with a sprig of spearmint. The fruit is delicious and a splash of the juice in ice water is wonderfully refreshing. I also make extract of mints by filling a jar with fresh leaves and stems and then covering with vodka. Mint sugar is easy to make by burying a couple of leaves in the sugar bowl. thanks Song
So glad you made this video. I'm growing chocolate mint, Peppermint, sweet mint and spearmint this year. Ali is separate containers. Thank you!
I have peppermint and lemon balm 😆
Amazing to have all those flavors and aromas, bet your mint water is over the top,Trini!
@@CaliKim29 Ikr🤣... But I wanted it all for me teas I'm so excited!
@@Neyobe I can't believe I forgot about lemon balm and bee balm, I have those too🤣🤣🤣😫
I grow orange mint and hang to dry, like an herb (don't use dehydrator). Once dried, I use a small coffee grinder and preserve it in cute little jars. Great for marinading fish or chicken, or anything else you'd like to add that flavor to.
Sounds very yummy, I've never tried orange mint. Thanks for sharing, Virginia!
Vegan, guilt-free ChocoMint Coffee Coolata with a touch of Ginger Mint is the ultimate smoothie made with 1 1/2 - 2 cups of cold black coffee, 2-3 frozen bananas (more if you want ice cream), 1 medjool date in the Vitamix. Sooo good! It tastes just like chocolate! If serving kids or you don't want the caffeine you can substitute mint water or your favorite plant-based milk. This time of year I throw some raspberries on top of the ice cream to make a delicious desert. I've been thinking I should try to bake something with it too....
Thanks for the video. It came at a good time because I need to harvest my mint as well. And your harvest videos are the best I’ve seen. Love your red pots. Gives me more ideas.
Glad it was helpful, Lucy! The harvest videos are one of my fav's to film too. Enjoy your mint!
Mint is so pretty!
Great video!!! Love the tips: smacking it to release smell & taste. And adding into glass as decor!! 👍
Mint also keeps mosquitos away when it’s growing on your patio! Yay mint!
So many benefits, thanks for the info, Lisa!
Yes my Spearmint does the same in Winter. I also thought it was dead in Winter. It's on its 3rd year now, I live the smell of it!
Its crazy how it comes back! Always a nice sign of spring to see the new growth, unless it's in a space where you don't want it - enjoy your mint, Amber!
@@CaliKim29 In a container! Thank You for replying.
Thank goodness for this video! I was running out of creative uses for it!
Perfect timing, glad you enjoyed it, Kaya! Thanks for watching!
I use the flowers, too. I chop them into tiny pieces for any kind of baking. Mint flower scones are really good! The flavor from the flowers is just right, it isn't so strong as the leaves would make it.
You can buy a muddler for cocktails to muddle the mint in the drink. I liked seeing the flowered mint I've never seen it. Mine finally just popped back up. I realize the container I have is too small now too. 😅
That's a great idea! Thank you so much, @ccbethny !!!! Kim
I have grown Chocolate Mint for years I love it works good In cucumber, lemon, mint water.
Growing your own mint is so rewarding and the taste is out of this world - love the chocolate mint too! Thanks for stopping by, Lee!
strawberry and mint lassie- delicious
This is my first year for growing mints so I have a lot to learn about them. I have peppermint, spearmint, sweet mint and lemon balm, which is also a mint. They're all in individual containers in my yard. I'll make a tea with the lemon balm and one of the others - different each time and all refreshing. I'm also air drying them for winter use.
All the mints........yummy!
Fantastic - bet the different flavors are so fun!
Dehydrate, crush and put in a spice jar. Then I sprinkle on my salads. So yummy with Italian dressing or olive oil & lemon juice.
Your hair looks so cute and pretty like that!
Thank you so much, Elines!
Bruising the mint leaves certainly does release more oils. I keep a 4 inch section of half inch dowel in my stuff drawer. I have a wood shop so I have lots of dowel pieces. I use the short dowel as a miniature rolling pin. Roll the leaves between the dowel and your cutting board a few times and you have a wonderful release of fragrance.
I wash the mint, dry it out and hang it ALL OVER my kitchen windows till dry--the I crush it and put it in a mason jar for storage--good for about 1 year! If you are using for tea put some whole leaves in another mason jar. Love that mint!! I have some peppermint in a raised bed and some in fabric grow bags. Spearmint the same.
Hello, 💚🌱✨🥰
I saw you on Google and your video was truly amazing and inspiring that I had to follow you on youtube. Thank you so much for all of these amazing tips and I am so happy to follow you and learn from you because I am starting my herb garden as of today and I really did not know what to do so I prayed about it and seriously your video popped up on Google as I was searching what can I do to bring forth my spearmint plant and truly your breath of fresh air!! Oh and your sunflowers looks wonderful! I will have to look for your video on how to grow them probably next. You have gained a new follower and many more subscribers after I let all my family and friends know that you are my newly inspired herb and garden angel. Bless you and cheers to you as well. 💚🌱🌻✨💫
Wow. Miss Darlene: WELCOME. 🙏 What a thrill to have you following! May I say I am honored !!! Make sure notifications is on - we have fun around here and you don’t want to miss out on posts: Videos, Shorts, Drone shots, GoPro…all to make your experience immersive.
You made my day. Thank you. Don’t be a stranger and bring the family. We love it. CaliKim and CameraGuy (my husband). CK
Our mint dies back in our hot southern summers. We grow it in mostly shade. I put it in a bed, it has exploded but it’s so pretty and smells awesome. I grew up on mint tea in Europe so that’s a fav too
I love making mint limeade, adding a touch of mint to my protein shakes, or making watermelon lemonade with mint. Freeze watermelon chunks, put them in the blender, fill in the cracks with lemonade and some mint leaves, and blend into a delicious slushie. 🤤 Strawberry Basil lemonade is also to die for. This year I want to make a bunch of mint extract during the summer, to give as Christmas gifts.
Ooooo mint in a protein shake sounds especially nice! Please add me to the Christmas list Kristin..LOL. This all sounds lovely! CK
Hair looks so cute! 😍
Thank you!
Wow!!! Your mint smells so fresh.
Mint like orégano, basil and thime to preserve you tie little bunches and hang down inside paper bags, I never washed it before but I cleaned them with paper towell, well I did washed the basil, maybe some mint, but normally they seem to me clean, when Winter is here I check my bunches and bags and I put them in 1 gallon ziploc bags, I do not label myself but you can do it, if not too familiar with them, they are better than dried leaves from the store and more aromatic, you may use them for cooking or infusion during the whole Winter that they are dead dormant, unless you put inside the pot, they bring a fragrance to the house.
Very informative and love how thorough you are. It helps for newbies like me!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for commenting - CK
I steep my fresh mint in boiling hot water for 20 minutes and then use warm/hot or cool it down for a fleshing mint tea!
Thank you, this is the answer I've been seeking! ❤
Lemon verbena and ginger mint infused honey for sore throat tea. Love your hair btw
Great idea, and thank you, Cindy! ❤️
thanks for the video. i live in nj where the mint dries out in winter, so in summer i dry my mint leaves and make powder out of it , then i put lemon , salt , black pepper and mint power in my sparkling water. its the most delicious and refreshing.
Sounds fabulous! Sounds like you have done some experimenting and have gotten the process down? You are welcome for the video - so glad you enjoyed it! Kim
Lots & lots of ways to use fresh mint but I use it daily to help stomach digest/upset. I just soak fresh leaves in hot water (like tea), It did take me a brief second to get used to the taste but now I like it and it really does make a difference. I also like to make pesto with it, Yum! I grow indoors in the winter so I always have it fresh & it smells great in the room😉
I use mint in my tea and I put it in my cabinets to keep critters away, my favorite is spearmint
i really like mint flower scones.
Your mint look beautiful in the garden , thanks for sharing tips how to prune mint from cutting
I love having mi my that is invasive. We live in a desert and I would prefer mint to dirt it so many of the weeds have thorns.!
Perfect for an area where you need the ground cover, good idea, Jeannie!
Always a pleasure watching your videos.
Love mint! Many many uses! A few sprigs in rice pilaf gives it that extra special aroma & flavor, add it while you sauté some veggies: squash, cauliflower, carrots etc. Add a bit to Gazpacho! And my most favorite way it to make Tabouleh salad!!! Fresh mint, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and raw soaked bulgur wheat… with a dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt & pepper!!! You won’t find a more filling refreshing salad for the summer! ( I add some very finely chopped fresh chili pepper for some added heat!)
Logi, so many wonderful ideas here, thanks so much! Love Tabouleh salad, yummy!
I came here to gain knowledge. I did and also smiles :D your garden is so loved, and unique, just like you!! Thank you for also teaching us the importance of containing plants like mint, so they dont take over.
LOL, smack the mint! I have got to try that! It sounds more efficient (and fun) than crushing it. Thanks for the tip!
We grow mint, and I love making mint iced tea.
I have fresh mint growing around our fire pit. I noticed it a couple of years ago. Now from watching your video I know how to harvest it. What I'd like to know is how to dry it if it doesn't harm it. I have a friend with major stomach issues and I know they say mint is good to help settle the stomach. I'd like to learn how to do that. Fortunately for me it has not gone crazy around the firepit. I think it's because the previous owners have gravel mixed with the soil and it smells so beautiful. Where is the best place to find out the many uses of mint in cooking and for your health. I'd appreciate your directions on how to care for it and it's many uses. Thank you for any help you can offer
To dry mint, start by harvesting in the morning when the oils are most concentrated. Gently rinse and pat the leaves dry. Hang small bunches upside down in a warm, dry spot with good air circulation, out of direct sunlight to preserve flavor and color. Once completely dry, store the whole leaves in an airtight container away from light, and crumble them just before use.
Mint is a wonderful herb for both cooking and health. It’s well-known for aiding digestion and can be brewed into tea to help soothe the stomach. It also shines in salads, with meats like lamb, in sauces, and desserts. For more inspiration on mint’s culinary and health benefits, check out resources like the Herbal Academy or Mountain Rose Herbs, which often share herb-focused recipes and health insights.
To keep your mint healthy, trim it back periodically to delay flowering, which preserves its rich flavor. The gravel around your fire pit is likely helping contain its spread-a perfect setup for keeping it manageable! If my replies and videos have been helpful - please subscribe! Thank you - CaliKim
Thank you for this video. I planted mint last spring and it looks like a jungle now. I really need to find uses for it.
I love mints..
Awesome n nice gardens
My granddaughter and I like to make strawberry mint lemonade. Yum!
That sounds good!
This is my first year I bought some mint and chocolate mint . I didn’t know what to do with it. So thank you! I have never planted any herbs before. I bought lavender and basil, don’t know what to do with that either. lol. Thank you
I have just one very happy peppermint plant in a pot. I love the idea of mint water. My girls are coming home for a wedding this weekend…thanks for the idea 💕🌱 What an awesome way to serve a crowd! Another idea: Mojitos
❤️😂😋🤩🍹Love watching you Kim. Get ready for the heat wave…we’re going to be HOT 🥵 this weekend in Gilroy!
Hello another Kim Fan in Gilroy! Im here in the east hills trying shade plants this morning so they don't burn up.
Hi Stacy - happy to hear you've found a sweet spot for your mint. Mint water in a large beverage container is perfect for a crowd, I've done it for parties many times. You can add chunks of watermelon, sliced cucumbers or strawberries to kick it up a notch. And mojitos are heavenly on a hot summer evening. Stay cool in Gilroy and enjoy the wedding!
Wow - hot there in Gilroy! Good thing your're breaking out the shade cloth. Stay hydrated, stay cool and enjoy your garden. Appreciate the visit!
@ Pixie Bees and Me - we must be minutes away from each other. I’m off Crews and Leavesley.
I have had mint tea since I was a lot girl💕 I always wanted to learn how to harvest it! Thank You for your video all my mind has the flowers now I didn’t know when to harvest it I will be harvesting it now I want to dry it out for tea.
Wow love your mint leaves. I just learned the hard way they do grow wild. I just cut down a "forest" of mint leaves. Time for some Mojitos. I like the water/ soda with mint leaves. Great video thanks!
I grow it in my garden and just pull out the runners to keep it in check easy peasy!
Great idea with the water and mint. Will definitely try that whenever it's sunny in Scotland again. I love to use peppermint in my tea strainer. Refreshing and good breath
Hi, CaliKim!!. I have three different kind of mint on my balcony!!. Your mint look great!!. Thanks for sharing!!.
So cool to taste and compare the different flavors! Thanks for hanging out!