Growing mint bonsai is an interesting and unusual way to create a miniature plant that combines aesthetics and functionality.
Mint is hardy, easy to care for and grows quickly — making it suitable for beginners.
The plant is native South Africa.
Location
Can be indoors, near a sunny window or outdoors in warm weather.
Lighting
Bright, diffused. In summer, plants should be shaded from direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn. Optimal content — on windowsills on the eastern and western sides, on the balcony or loggia — in the penumbra. In winter, it is necessary to artificially illuminate grow lights for 10–14 hours. With lack of light shoots grow weak with long internodes and yellow leaves.
Soil
The soil is prepared from 2 parts peat, 2 parts Akadama, 2 parts sand and 1 part humus, pH 6.0-7.0. Good drainage is necessary at the bottom of the pot.
Temperature
Optimally within +15…+25 °C, but can be higher (+28…+32 °C) provided there is a good supply of fresh air. In winter, plants need coolness, +15…+18 °C. Below +10 °C temperature should not fall. There is no resting period.
Watering
Regular but not too much watering is required. Temporary dryness is necessary to prevent root rot, so keep the soil dry for a couple of days between waterings. Categorically contraindicated excess moisture and stagnant water in the pot. Signs of overwatering are drying leaves, rotting roots and stem bases. If the room is too hot and dry, the leaves wilt and hang, the plant should be sprayed.
Soft water at room temperature is needed for watering.
Fertilizer
Apply mainly during the active growing season, from spring to fall, with liquid balanced mineral fertilizers rich in nitrogen and potassium every 20–30 days (or 2 times a month at half dose). It is possible to apply granular mineral fertilizers of long-lasting action in early spring instead of fractional fertilizers. Fertilization can be reduced in fall and winter.
Repotting
To replenish nutrient reserves, transplanting once a year with complete replacement of soil and drainage is necessary.
Shaping and pruning
Pruning and pinching rejuvenates and makes plants more lush. Pinching the tips can encourage more bushy growth. New shoots regrow quickly. Pruning is always accompanied by fertilization, which improves plant quality and stimulates subsequent flowering. The small blue-purple flowers bloom from late spring to fall. The flower stalks that appear towards the end of summer are pruned out.
Diseases and pests
Regular inspection of leaves and stems will help detect pests such as mealybugs and aphids at an early stage.
Wipe the leaves with soapy water or wash off insects with sprayed water.
