Transform your lawn into a fragrant, living carpet with Corsican mint (Mentha requienii). This hardy perennial (USDA zones 5-9) not only thrives as a low-growing ground cover but also boasts delicate, light purple flowers from July to August that attract pollinators.1
Here’s the seven steps to cultivating your very own Corsican mint lawn, a beautiful and fragrant alternative to traditional turf.
1. Assess Your Site
Sunlight: Corsican mint thrives in partial shade to full shade. Observe your chosen area throughout the day to determine how much sunlight it receives. Too much direct sun can scorch the delicate leaves.
Moisture: Corsican mint prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil. Avoid areas that are prone to flooding or excessive dryness.
Foot Traffic: While Corsican mint is low-growing and somewhat resilient, it’s best to choose an area with low to moderate foot traffic. This will help prevent the plants from being trampled.
2. Prepare the Soil
Weed Removal: Thoroughly remove any existing weeds or grass from the area. Corsican mint is a slow grower, and weeds can easily outcompete it.
Soil Amendment: Corsican mint prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-6.5). Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH. If necessary, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Leveling: Rake the soil to create a smooth, level surface. This will ensure even coverage when planting.
3. Plant Corsican Mint
Spacing: Corsican mint spreads quickly, so space plants 6-12 inches apart.
Planting Depth: Gently press the plants into the soil, ensuring the crown (where the stem meets the roots) is level with the soil surface.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting to help them settle in. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, especially during the establishment phase.
4. Water Regularly
Frequency: Corsican mint loves moisture, so water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Check the soil daily by sticking your finger an inch deep – if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Method: Water gently to avoid dislodging the plants. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system can be helpful to deliver water directly to the roots without disturbing the foliage.
Timing: Water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
5. Control Weeds
Early Intervention: Regularly inspect your Corsican mint lawn for any emerging weeds. It’s much easier to remove weeds when they’re small and have shallow roots.
Hand Weeding: The best method for weed control in a Corsican mint lawn is hand weeding. Carefully pull out any weeds you find, being careful not to disturb the surrounding mint plants.
6. Fertilize Occasionally
Light Feedings: Corsican mint is not a heavy feeder. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can help promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers.
Organic Options: Consider using organic fertilizers, such as compost tea or fish emulsion, to nourish your Corsican mint lawn and improve soil health.
7. Enjoy Your Aromatic Lawn
Fragrance: One of the greatest joys of a Corsican mint lawn is its delightful fragrance. As you walk or sit on it, the leaves will release their minty aroma, creating a sensory experience.
Ground Cover: Corsican mint forms a dense, low-growing mat that helps suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion. It’s a beautiful and functional addition to your landscape.
Culinary Use: If you’d like, you can even harvest some of the leaves for culinary use. Corsican mint has a delicate minty flavor that can be used to flavor drinks, desserts, and savory dishes.
Cultivating a Corsican mint lawn enables you to create a beautiful and low-maintenance ground cover that not only delights the senses but also contributes to a thriving ecosystem.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.