The broadcasting of peppermint seeds results in germination within 10 to 16 days. The plant can also be propagated by cuttings.
The peppermint plant is characterized by its beautiful flowers. Its blooming season is marked from mid-summer to late-summer. The pretty flowers serve as the icing on the cake by attracting pollinating insects for pollination. The pollinating insects advance happily towards the plant with the heavenly smell teasing their minds and violet colors joshing their senses.
After the process of pollination and fertilization, the ovule develops into a seed to begin the lifecycle again.
Peppermint plant is harvested solely for its leaves as they are of utmost importance from both cooking and medicinal point of view.
The leaves are harvested in spring when they are very young i.e. just before the plant initiates flowering. An indoor plant can ensure the supply of peppermint leaves throughout the winters.
They are frequently harvested to keep the plant in its best shape.
The stem of the plant is cut 1 inch above the ground. Either scissors or your hands are enough to collect your highly desired peppermint leaves.
Young leaves are preferred over the old ones because they possess more flavors than the old ones. Also, when they receive more sunlight, the quantity of its active ingredients increases amazingly.
Peppermint leaves are wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag. The plastic bag is not tightly sealed to ensure air circulation. Failure to do so can result in mold formation.
Another way is to trim the ends of the stem and place them in a jar filled with 1 inch of water. It is made sure that the water is replaced immediately when it turns cloudy.
The peppermint leaves can also be dried (through the dehydrator, air, or oven) and froze to be enjoyed for up to three months.