Mint – Pennyroyal

Mentha pulegium – Pennyroyal

• Growing Temp 60°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 60-90 days

Ease of Cultivation and Culinary Use: Pennyroyal is a hardy perennial mint known for its strong minty aroma and flavor, often used in traditional remedies and culinary applications. While it can be somewhat challenging to grow due to its vigorous nature and potential to become invasive, it is manageable in controlled settings. Pennyroyal can be used in teas and as a flavoring in various dishes, although it should be used with caution due to its potent properties.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant Pennyroyal seeds outdoors after the last frost in well-drained soil that retains some moisture. Sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. Germination usually occurs within 10–14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist during this period and ensure the plants receive full sunlight to thrive.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start early, sow Pennyroyal seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, lightly covering the seeds with soil. Maintain a warm environment around 70°F for optimal germination. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them properly to accommodate their growth.

Harvesting: To determine when Pennyroyal is ready for harvest, look for healthy plants with lush foliage, typically within 60-90 days. You can begin harvesting once the leaves are well-formed, snipping off stems as needed. The best time to harvest is just before the plant flowers, when the essential oils are most potent. Regular harvesting will encourage new growth and help manage its spread in the garden.